Vacuum-assisted insertion device

ABSTRACT

Insertion devices, systems, and methods for inserting a needle into a target tissue in an individual in need thereof are disclosed herein. Also disclosed herein are needle cartridges comprising a needle, a plate, and a needle holder. Also disclosed herein are methods of introducing a catheter into a target tissue in an individual in need thereof.

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/749,014, filed Oct. 22, 2018, which is incorporated herein byreference.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are insertion devices forinserting a needle into a target tissue in an individual in needthereof, comprising: a housing comprising: an ultrasound transducerconfigured to emit and receive an ultrasound wave, and a cartridgereceiver comprising a plurality of first connectors; a cartridge havinga top surface, a bottom surface, a proximal end, and a distal end, thecartridge configured to be coupled to the cartridge receiver,comprising: a plurality of second connectors located on the top surfaceof the cartridge, configured to form an electrical connection with theplurality of first connectors of the cartridge receiver, a plate havinga planar surface and a thickness configured to allow the ultrasound waveto pass therethrough, and a needle holder, comprising an interior havinga proximal end and distal end a track therebetween, the track havingtrack walls configured to guide the needle, a needle connectorconfigured to couple the needle to a plurality of actuators, a needleholder opening located at the distal end of the needle holder, and aport located at the proximal end of the needle holder; wherein theneedle exits through the needle holder opening; and an infrared sensorconfigured to emit and receive an infrared radiation.

In some embodiments, the target tissue is a blood vessel. In someembodiments, the target tissue is a joint or a soft tissue. In someembodiments, the soft tissue comprises a tendon, a ligament, fascia, afibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, a nerve, a muscle, skin, or asynovial membrane. In some embodiments, the target tissue is a calcifiedtissue. In some embodiments, the calcified tissue is a bone. In someembodiments, the housing comprises at least one handle. In someembodiments, the cartridge is reversibly coupled to the cartridgereceiver. In some embodiments, the plate is fixed relative to thecartridge receiver. In some embodiments, the needle holder is movableangular-wise and moves within the housing. In some embodiments, theneedle holder is angled at a needle holder angle ranging between about0° to about 80°. In some embodiments, the needle is an introducerneedle, a biopsy needle, or a needle trocar. In some embodiments, theneedle comprises a catheter and/or a guidewire. In some embodiments, thecatheter is a peripherally inserted central catheter, a central venouscatheter, a urinary catheter, an arterial catheter, a venous catheter, atunneled catheter, a port catheter, or a non-tunneled central catheter.In some embodiments, the needle is in flow communication with a fluidinjection line. In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver comprises aframe having a rail on either of its sides, the rail configured tosecure the needle holder. In some embodiments, the plurality ofactuators comprises a spring actuator and an angle actuator. In someembodiments, the spring actuator controls the longitudinal movement ofthe needle. In some embodiments, the angle actuator controls the needleholder angle. In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises avacuum connection located within the housing, the vacuum connectioncomprising a vacuum connector operatively connected to the cartridge. Insome embodiments, the vacuum connector is in vacuum communication with avacuum source. In some embodiments, the vacuum source is configured todraw air through the needle holder opening. In some embodiments, thevacuum source is configured to draw air through the bottom surface ofthe cartridge. In some embodiments, the needle holder comprises a portlever or a collection tube configured to be received by the port. Insome embodiments, the port lever moves within a cartridge arc path asthe needle holder is moved from one selected position to another. Insome embodiments, the insertion device comprises a power source. In someembodiments, the insertion device comprises a disposable sleeveconfigured for receiving the cartridge. In some embodiments, theinfrared sensor comprises an infrared radiation source. In someembodiments, the infrared radiation source is a light emitting diode(LED) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED). In some embodiments,the infrared sensor comprises an infrared radiation detector. In someembodiments, the infrared radiation detector is an infraredphotodetector or a temperature detector. In some embodiments, thecartridge serves as a barrier between the cartridge and the insertiondevice or between the insertion device and an individual. The cartridgecan be pre-loaded with a therapeutic agent, wherein the therapeuticagent is delivered to the individual through the needle. The cartridgecan further comprise an injection device. An anesthetizing agent can bedelivered to the individual through the injection device. The injectiondevice can be an additional needle.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are insertion systems forinserting a needle into a target tissue in an individual in needthereof, comprising: a housing comprising: an ultrasound transducerconfigured to emit and receive an ultrasound wave, and a cartridgereceiver comprising a plurality of first connectors; a cartridge havinga top surface, a bottom surface, a proximal end, and a distal end,configured to be coupled to the cartridge receiver, comprising: aplurality of second connectors located on the top surface of thecartridge, configured to form an electrical connection with theplurality of first connectors of the cartridge receiver, a plate havinga planar surface and a thickness configured to allow the ultrasound waveto pass therethrough, and a needle holder, comprising an interior havinga proximal end and a distal end, and a track therebetween, the trackhaving track walls configured to guide the needle, a needle connectorconfigured to couple the needle to a plurality of actuators, a needleholder opening located at the distal end of the needle holder, and aport located at the proximal end of the needle holder; wherein theneedle exits through the needle holder opening; an infrared sensorconfigured to emit and receive an infrared radiation; a display screenoperatively coupled to the ultrasound transducer and the infraredsensor, the display screen configured to display an ultrasound image andan infrared image of the target tissue location, the needle, and aneedle insertion point; and a computing device comprising a processoroperatively coupled to the ultrasound transducer, the infrared sensor,the display screen, and the plurality of actuators and a non-transitorycomputer readable storage medium with a computer program includinginstructions executable by the processor causing the processor to: a)convert the ultrasound wave emitted from the ultrasound transducer intothe ultrasound image and display the ultrasound image on the displayscreen, b) convert the infrared radiation emitted from the infraredsensor into the infrared image and display the infrared image on thedisplay screen, c) localize the target tissue,

d) calculate the needle insertion point into the target tissue, and e)track the position of the tip of the needle once the needle is insertedinto the target tissue. The cartridge can be pre-loaded with atherapeutic agent, wherein the therapeutic agent is delivered to theindividual through the needle. The cartridge can further comprise aninjection device. An anesthetizing agent can be delivered to theindividual through the injection device. The injection device can be anadditional needle.

In some embodiments, the target tissue is a blood vessel. In someembodiments, the target tissue is a joint or a soft tissue. In someembodiments, the soft tissue comprises a tendon, a ligament, fascia, afibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, a nerve, a muscle, skin, or asynovial membrane. In some embodiments, the target tissue is a calcifiedtissue. In some embodiments, the calcified tissue is a bone. In someembodiments, the housing comprises at least one handle. In someembodiments, the cartridge is reversibly coupled to the cartridgereceiver. In some embodiments, the plate is fixed relative to thecartridge receiver. In some embodiments, the needle holder is movableangular-wise and moves within the housing. In some embodiments, theneedle holder is angled at a needle holder angle ranging between about0° to about 80°. In some embodiments, the needle is an introducerneedle, a biopsy needle, or a needle trocar. In some embodiments, theneedle comprises a catheter and/or a guidewire. In some embodiments, thecatheter is a peripherally inserted central catheter, a central venouscatheter, a urinary catheter, an arterial catheter, a venous catheter, atunneled catheter, a port catheter, or a non-tunneled central catheter.In some embodiments, the needle is in flow communication with a fluidinjection line. In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver comprises aframe having a rail on either of its sides, the rail configured tosecure the needle holder. In some embodiments, the plurality ofactuators comprises a spring actuator and an angle actuator. In someembodiments, the spring actuator controls the longitudinal movement ofthe needle. In some embodiments, the angle actuator controls the needleholder angle. In some embodiments, the insertion systems comprise avacuum connection located within the housing, the vacuum connectioncomprising a vacuum connector operatively connected to the cartridge. Insome embodiments, the vacuum connector is in vacuum communication with avacuum source. In some embodiments, the vacuum source is configured todraw air through the needle holder opening. In some embodiments, thevacuum source is configured to draw air through the bottom surface ofthe cartridge. In some embodiments, the needle holder comprises a portlever or a collection tube configured to be received by the port. Insome embodiments, the port lever moves within a cartridge arc path asthe needle holder is moved from one selected position to another. Insome embodiments, the insertion system comprises a power source. In someembodiments, the insertion system comprises a disposable sleeveconfigured for receiving the cartridge. In some embodiments, theinsertion system comprises a power source. In some embodiments, theinsertion system comprises a disposable sleeve configured for receivingthe cartridge. In some embodiments, the display screen displays anultrasound image of the target tissue location in the individual in needthereof, the needle, and a needle insertion point in real time. In someembodiments, the system comprises a user interface operatively coupledto the computing device. In some embodiments, the user interfacecomprises a touch screen and/or a plurality of buttons to controlvarious functions of the insertion system. In some embodiments, thevarious functions of the insertion system comprise: controlling thelongitudinal movement of the needle, controlling the needle holderangle, controlling the longitudinal movement of a catheter, enhancingthe focus of the ultrasound image, centering the ultrasound image,activating the vacuum motor, or any combination thereof. In someembodiments, the infrared sensor comprises an infrared radiation source.In some embodiments, the infrared radiation source is a light emittingdiode (LED) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED). In someembodiments, the infrared sensor comprises an infrared radiationdetector. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation detector is aninfrared photodetector or a temperature detector. In some embodiments,the instructions executable by the processor cause the processor toautomatically adjust the position of the needle such that the needle iscentered within the target tissue. In some embodiments, the cartridgeserves as a barrier between the cartridge and the insertion device orbetween the insertion device and an individual. The cartridge can bepre-loaded with a therapeutic agent, wherein the therapeutic agent isdelivered to the individual through the needle. The cartridge canfurther comprise an injection device. An anesthetizing agent can bedelivered to the individual through the injection device. The injectiondevice can be an additional needle.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are needle cartridges,comprising: a needle; a plate having a planar surface and a thicknessconfigured to allow an ultrasound wave to pass therethrough; a needleholder, comprising an interior having a proximal end and a distal endand a track therebetween, the track having track walls configured toguide the needle, a needle connector configured to couple the needle toa plurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at the distalend of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal end of theneedle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening. In some embodiments, the cartridge is configured to couple toan insertion device. In some embodiments, the cartridge serves as abarrier between the cartridge and the insertion device or between theinsertion device and an individual.

In some embodiments, the needle holder is movable angular-wise and moveswithin the housing. In some embodiments, the needle holder is angled ata needle holder angle ranging between about 0° to about 80°. In someembodiments, the needle is an introducer needle, a biopsy needle, or aneedle trocar. In some embodiments, the needle comprises a catheterand/or a guidewire. In some embodiments, the catheter is a peripherallyinserted central catheter, a central venous catheter, a urinarycatheter, an arterial catheter, a venous catheter, a tunneled catheter,a port catheter, or a non-tunneled central catheter.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are imaging devices forlocating a target tissue in an individual in need thereof, comprising:an ultrasound transducer configured to emit and receive an ultrasoundwave; an infrared sensor configured to emit and receive an infraredradiation; and a display screen operatively coupled to the ultrasoundtransducer and the infrared sensor, the display screen configured todisplay an ultrasound image and an infrared image of the target tissue.

In some embodiments, the target tissue is a blood vessel. In someembodiments, the target tissue is a joint or a soft tissue. In someembodiments, the soft tissue comprises a tendon, a ligament, fascia, afibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, a nerve, a muscle, skin, or asynovial membrane. In some embodiments, the target tissue is a calcifiedtissue. In some embodiments, the calcified tissue is a bone. In someembodiments, the imaging device comprises a vacuum connection locatedwithin the housing, the vacuum connection comprising a vacuum connectoroperatively connected to the cartridge. In some embodiments, the vacuumconnector is in vacuum communication with a vacuum source. In someembodiments, the imaging device comprises a power source. In someembodiments, the infrared sensor comprises an infrared radiation source.In some embodiments, the infrared radiation source is a light emittingdiode (LED) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED). In someembodiments, the infrared sensor comprises an infrared radiationdetector. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation detector is aninfrared photodetector or a temperature detector.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods of introducing aneedle into a target tissue in an individual in need thereof, using theinsertion device disclosed herein, comprising: securing the cartridge tothe cartridge receiver; imaging the target tissue using the ultrasoundprobe and the infrared sensor by contacting the surface of the skin ofthe individual with the bottom surface of the cartridge; identifying theneedle insertion point on the display screen; and adjusting the needleholder angle and moving the needle longitudinally, through the cartridgeinlet, thereby introducing the needle at the needle insertion point andinto the target tissue. The cartridge can be pre-loaded with atherapeutic agent, wherein the therapeutic agent is delivered to theindividual through the needle. The cartridge can further comprise aninjection device. An anesthetizing agent can be delivered to theindividual through the injection device. The injection device can be anadditional needle.

In some embodiments, adjusting the needle holder angle and moving theneedle longitudinally are manually actuated. In some embodiments,adjusting the needle holder angle and moving the needle longitudinallyare automatically actuated by the computing device. In some embodiments,the method comprises administering a therapeutic agent using the needle.In some embodiments, the method comprises collecting a biopsy sampleusing the needle.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods of sampling venousblood in an individual in need thereof, using the insertion devicedisclosed herein, comprising: securing the cartridge to the cartridgereceiver; securing an evacuated collection tube to the port; imaging ablood vessel using the ultrasound probe and the infrared sensor bycontacting the surface of the skin of the individual with the bottomsurface of the cartridge; identifying the needle insertion point on thedisplay screen; adjusting the needle holder angle and moving the needlelongitudinally, through the cartridge inlet, thereby introducing theneedle at the needle insertion point and into the blood vessel; andcollecting venous blood from the individual into the evacuated, bloodcollection tube. The cartridge can be pre-loaded with a therapeuticagent, wherein the therapeutic agent is delivered to the individualthrough the needle. The cartridge can further comprise an injectiondevice. An anesthetizing agent can be delivered to the individualthrough the injection device. The injection device can be an additionalneedle.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods of introducing acatheter into a target tissue in an individual in need thereof, usingthe insertion device disclosed herein, comprising: securing thecartridge to the cartridge receiver; imaging the target tissue using theultrasound probe and the infrared sensor by contacting the surface ofthe skin of the individual with the bottom surface of the cartridge;identifying the catheter insertion point on the display screen; andadjusting the needle holder angle and moving the catheterlongitudinally, through the cartridge inlet, thereby introducing thecatheter at the catheter insertion point and into the target tissue.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are insertion devices forinserting a needle into a target tissue in an individual in needthereof, comprising: a housing comprising: a cartridge receivercomprising a plurality of first connectors; a cartridge having a topsurface, a bottom surface, a proximal end, and a distal end, thecartridge configured to be coupled to the cartridge receiver,comprising: a plurality of second connectors located on the top surfaceof the cartridge, configured to form an electrical connection with theplurality of first connectors of the cartridge receiver, and a needleholder, comprising an interior having a proximal end and distal end atrack therebetween, the track having track walls configured to guide theneedle, a needle connector configured to couple the needle to aplurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at the distalend of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal end of theneedle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening; and an imaging apparatus configured to image the target tissue.

In some embodiments, the target tissue is a blood vessel. In someembodiments, the target tissue is a joint or a soft tissue. In someembodiments, the soft tissue comprises a tendon, a ligament, fascia, afibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, a nerve, a muscle, skin, or asynovial membrane. In some embodiments, the target tissue is a calcifiedtissue. In some embodiments, the calcified tissue is a bone. In someembodiments, the housing comprises at least one handle. In someembodiments, the cartridge is reversibly coupled to the cartridgereceiver. In some embodiments, the plate is fixed relative to thecartridge receiver. In some embodiments, the needle holder is movableangular-wise and moves within the housing. In some embodiments, theneedle holder is angled at a needle holder angle ranging between about0° to about 80°. In some embodiments, the needle is an introducerneedle, a biopsy needle, or a needle trocar. In some embodiments, theneedle comprises a catheter and/or a guidewire. In some embodiments, thecatheter is a peripherally inserted central catheter, a central venouscatheter, a urinary catheter, an arterial catheter, a venous catheter, atunneled catheter, a port catheter, or a non-tunneled central catheter.In some embodiments, the needle is in flow communication with a fluidinjection line. In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver comprises aframe having a rail on either of its sides, the rail configured tosecure the needle holder. In some embodiments, the plurality ofactuators comprises a spring actuator and an angle actuator. In someembodiments, the spring actuator controls the longitudinal movement ofthe needle. In some embodiments, the angle actuator controls the needleholder angle. In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises avacuum connection located within the housing, the vacuum connectioncomprising a vacuum connector operatively connected to the cartridge. Insome embodiments, the vacuum connector is in vacuum communication with avacuum source. In some embodiments, the vacuum source is configured todraw air through the needle holder opening. In some embodiments, thevacuum source is configured to draw air through the bottom surface ofthe cartridge. In some embodiments, the needle holder comprises a portlever or a collection tube configured to be received by the port. Insome embodiments, the port lever moves within a cartridge arc path asthe needle holder is moved from one selected position to another. Insome embodiments, the insertion device comprises a power source. In someembodiments, the insertion device comprises a disposable sleeveconfigured for receiving the cartridge. In some embodiments, the imagingapparatus is an ultrasound transducer, an infrared sensor, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, the infrared sensor comprisesan infrared radiation source. In some embodiments, the infraredradiation source is a light emitting diode (LED) or an organic lightemitting diode (OLED). In some embodiments, the infrared sensorcomprises an infrared radiation detector. In some embodiments, theinfrared radiation detector is an infrared photodetector or atemperature detector. In some embodiments, the insertion devicecomprises an ultrasound transducer configured to emit and receive anultrasound wave. In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises a platehaving a planar surface and a thickness configured to allow theultrasound wave to pass therethrough. In some embodiments, the cartridgeserves as a barrier between the cartridge and the insertion device orbetween the insertion device and the individual. The cartridge can bepre-loaded with a therapeutic agent, wherein the therapeutic agent isdelivered to the individual through the needle. The cartridge canfurther comprise an injection device. An anesthetizing agent can bedelivered to the individual through the injection device. The injectiondevice can be an additional needle.

Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will becomereadily apparent to those skilled in this art from the followingdetailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of thepresent disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, thepresent disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, andits several details are capable of modifications in various obviousrespects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, thedrawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature,and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the subject matter disclosed herein are set forthwith particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of thefeatures and advantages of the subject matter disclosed herein will beobtained by reference to the following detailed description that setsforth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the subjectmatter disclosed herein are utilized, and the accompanying drawings ofwhich:

FIGS. 1A-B illustrate an embodiment of an insertion device being used ona patient. FIG. 1A shows a front view of the insertion device. FIG. 1Billustrates the insertion device with an exemplary output imagedisplayed on its display screen.

FIGS. 2A-B illustrate an embodiment of the insertion device comprising acartridge. FIG. 2A shows an isometric view of the bottom or distal sideof the insertion device. FIG. 2B shows anisometric view of the bottom ordistal side of the insertion device when coupled with the cartridge.

FIGS. 3A-B illustrate side views of an embodiment of the insertiondevice. FIG. 3A shows a side view of the insertion device and a port.FIG. 3B shows a side view of the insertion device at a different anglethan what is shown in FIG. 3A.

FIGS. 4A-D illustrate side views of an embodiment of a needle holder andthe insertion of a catheter. FIG. 4A illustrates an isometric side viewof an isolated needle holder showing a syringe and a catheter. FIG. 4Billustrates a side view of the needle holder as a needle and catheterenter a human blood vessel. FIG. 4C illustrates the insertion of acatheter using the insertion device. FIG. 4D illustrates an exemplaryoutput image of a blood vessel lumen displayed on the display screen ofthe insertion device, while inserting a catheter into the blood vessel.

FIG. 5 illustrates various embodiments of cartridges that are used withan insertion device.

FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of another embodiment of the insertiondevice.

FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a cartridge ofthe insertion device.

FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of a cartridge of theinsertion device.

FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of a cartridge of theinsertion device comprising a flexible collar in a stretched-outposition.

FIG. 10 illustrates a partial section view of an embodiment of theinsertion device showing the actuator mechanisms.

FIGS. 11A-C illustrate views of an embodiment of a skin attachment cup.FIG. 11A shows a top view of the skin attachment cup. FIG. 11B shows anisometric view of the skin attachment cup. FIG. 11C shows a front viewof the skin attachment cup.

FIG. 12 illustrates a computer control system that is programmed orotherwise configured to implement methods provided herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates a front perspective view of a needle stage withcomponents for the rotation and height adjustment.

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the needle stage shown inFIG. 13.

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a needle drive assemblywith drive mechanism for the insertion of the needle and/or catheter.

FIG. 16 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an ultrasound stage withtranslation and rotation mechanisms to move the ultrasound probe.

FIGS. 17A-17E illustrates a three degrees of freedom (DOF) mechanismwith three joints. FIG. 17A illustrates three DOF mechanism wherein thefirst joint is rotary, the second joint is prismatic, and the thirdjoint is rotary. FIG. 17B shows a DOF mechanism, wherein the first jointis prismatic, the second joint is rotary, and the third joint isprismatic. FIG. 17C shows a DOF mechanism, wherein all three joints arerotary. FIG. 17D shows a DOF mechanism with, wherein as the first jointis prismatic, the second joint is prismatic, and the third joint isrotary. FIG. 17E shows a DOF mechanism, wherein as the first joint isrotary, the second joint is rotary, and the third joint is prismatic.

FIG. 18 shows a schematic of actuators and needle when the needle is ina docketed position.

FIGS. 19A-19E show the schematic of actuators and needle at differentstages of insertion path. FIG. 19A shows the needle adjusted alongX-axis and lined up with the target vessel prior to the needleinsertion. FIG. 19B shows a necessary insertion angle of the needle toreach the vessel. FIG. 19C shows the needle rotated to the insertionangle. FIG. 19D shows the needle advanced along the insertion angle topenetrate the target vessel. FIG. 19E shows the needle advanced withinthe vessel along the length of the vessel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While preferred embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein havebeen shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled inthe art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only.Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to thoseskilled in the art without departing from the subject matter disclosedherein. It should be understood that various alternatives to theembodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein may be employed inpracticing the subject matter disclosed herein. It is intended that thefollowing claims define the scope of the subject matter disclosed hereinand that methods and structures within the scope of these claims andtheir equivalents be covered thereby.

Needle Insertion Techniques

In the medical field, the need often arises to inject or extract fluidsfrom the body of a patient. Various medical procedures, including, butnot limited to, phlebotomies, intravenous therapies, needle biopsies,epidurals, blood transfusions, and depot injections, all require the useof a hypodermic needle to gain access to interior organs. As such, thehypodermic needle is one of the most commonly-used tools in the practiceof medicine.

Although so many common medical procedures require the use of ahypodermic needle, the effectiveness of such procedures is primarilyreliant upon the proper insertion of the needle. Identifying structurallocations under the surface of the skin is often difficult; and, attimes, impossible. Variations in the thickness of skin, subcutaneousfat, and numerous other physical variations make it difficult, sometimesdangerous, and occasionally impossible to insert needles in specificlocations. Due to such variations, inter-organ access is not imperviousto failure, even when conducted by master nurses, skilled phlebotomists,or other doctors who commonly insert hypodermic needles.

Accurate access to interior organs, especially smaller, peripheralveins, is critical to the health and wellbeing of patients. However,smaller, peripheral veins and organs are typically the most difficult toaccess, especially for patients in the greatest need of intravenousaccess. For example, renal patients, trauma patients, critically-illpatients, and dehydrated patients require intravenous access; however,due to their health complications, the peripheral veins may beconstricted, scarred, or otherwise damaged, thereby preventing access tothe lumen of veins, arteries, and/or organs. Moreover, in emergencysituations in which intravenous access is prevented, central orintraosseous line infusions, which have a higher frequency oflife-threatening complications, must be performed.

Currently, procedures requiring needle insertion are typically performedmanually by a physician or nurse. However, the variations in skill andknowledge between and among physicians and nurses, coupled with theinability to view underneath the skin, create a high frequency of errorin needle placement.

Various imaging technologies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)and computer-aided tomography (CT), have been used in guided needleinsertion methods. While imaging technology-guided needle placement hasincreased the likelihood of successful needle placement, it is repletewith its own limitations. For example, very few physicians and nursesare taught or independently learn how to insert a needle using theguidance of medical imaging techniques, as only a handful of physicianresidency specialties, such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, andemergency physicians, encourage the training of imagingtechnology-guided needle placement. Even with such encouragement, due tothe limited focus of such specialties, training of imagingtechnology-guided needle placement within such specialties is typicallylimited to central venous access (i.e., large vessels in the neck,chest, and thighs). Since these procedures involve large vessels andlarge needles, very few, if any, of these specialized physicians aretrained to use the same technique to access smaller, peripheral vesselsand organs.

Even with proper training, inter-organ access using imagingtechnology-guided needle placement is difficult in practice. In somecases, current imaging technology-guided needle placement requires thepractitioner to use the non-dominant hand for the imaging probe and thedominant hand for the needle, all while looking at an image on a screenset off away from the patient. The multiple, independent variablesincrease the likelihood of error, even for the most skilled anddexterous practitioner. Accordingly, there exists a need for a medicalapparatus for accurate needle insertion, which simplifies the guided,needle-insertion process and requires minimal training and skill.

Disclosed herein are devices, systems, and methods for guided-needleinsertion and/or placement. The devices and systems described hereinguide a user to insert and/or place a needle at a desired location withthe assistance of ultrasound imaging, an infrared sensor, and/or avacuum source.

Also, disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are insertion devicesfor inserting a needle into a target tissue in an individual in needthereof, comprising: a housing comprising: an ultrasound transducerconfigured to emit and receive an ultrasound wave, and a cartridgereceiver comprising a plurality of first connectors; a cartridge havinga top surface, a bottom surface, a proximal end, and a distal end,coupled to the cartridge receiver, comprising: a plurality of secondconnectors located on the top surface of the cartridge, configured toform an electrical connection with the plurality of first connectors ofthe cartridge receiver, a plate having a planar surface and a thicknessconfigured to allow the ultrasound wave to pass therethrough, and aneedle holder, comprising an interior having a proximal end and distalend a track therebetween, the track having track walls configured toguide the needle, a syringe connector configured to couple the syringeto a plurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at thedistal end of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal endof the needle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening; and a an infrared sensor configured to emit and receive aninfrared radiation.

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are vacuum-assistedinsertion systems for inserting a needle into a target tissue in anindividual in need thereof, comprising: a housing comprising: anultrasound transducer configured to emit and receive an ultrasound wave,and a cartridge receiver comprising a plurality of first connectors; acartridge having a top surface, a bottom surface, a proximal end, and adistal end, coupled to the cartridge receiver, comprising: a pluralityof second connectors located on the top surface of the cartridge,configured to form an electrical connection with the plurality of firstconnectors of the cartridge receiver, a plate having a planar surfaceand a thickness configured to allow the ultrasound wave to passtherethrough, and a needle holder, comprising an interior having aproximal end and distal end, and a track therebetween, the track havingtrack walls configured to guide the needle, a syringe connectorconfigured to couple the syringe to a plurality of actuators, a needleholder opening located at the distal end of the needle holder, and aport located at the proximal end of the needle holder; wherein theneedle exits through the needle holder opening; an infrared sensorconfigured to emit and receive an infrared radiation; a display screenoperatively coupled to the ultrasound transducer and the infraredsensor, the display screen configured to display an ultrasound image andan infrared image of the target tissue location, the needle, and aneedle insertion point; and a computing device comprising a processoroperatively coupled to the ultrasound transducer, the infrared sensor,the display screen, and the plurality of actuators and a non-transitorycomputer readable storage medium with a computer program includinginstructions executable by the processor causing the processor to: a)convert the ultrasound wave emitted from the ultrasound transducer intothe ultrasound image and display the ultrasound image on the displayscreen, b) convert the infrared radiation emitted from the infraredsensor into the infrared image and display the infrared image on thedisplay screen; c) localize the target tissue, d) calculate the needleinsertion point into the target tissue, and e) track the position of thetip of the needle once the needle is inserted into the target tissue.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are syringe cartridgescomprising a syringe and a needle; a plate having a planar surface and athickness configured to allow an ultrasound wave to pass therethrough; aneedle holder, comprising an interior having a proximal end and a distalend and a track therebetween, the track having track walls configured toguide the needle, a syringe connector configured to couple the syringeto a plurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at thedistal end of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal endof the needle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are imaging devices forlocating a target tissue in an individual in need thereof, comprising anultrasound transducer configured to emit and receive an ultrasound wave;an infrared sensor configured to emit and receive an infrared radiation;and a display screen operatively coupled to the ultrasound transducerand the infrared sensor, the display screen configured to display anultrasound image and an infrared image of the target tissue.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods of introducing aneedle into a target tissue of an individual using the insertion device,comprising: a) securing the cartridge to the cartridge receiver, b)imaging the target tissue using the ultrasound probe and the infraredsensor by contacting the surface of the skin of the individual with thebottom surface of the cartridge, c) identifying the needle insertionpoint on the display screen, and d) adjusting the needle holder angleand moving the needle longitudinally, through the cartridge inlet,thereby introducing the needle at the needle insertion point and intothe target tissue.

Further described herein, in certain embodiments, are methods ofsampling venous blood in an individual in need thereof, using theinsertion device, comprising: a) securing the cartridge to the cartridgereceiver, b) securing an evacuated collection tube to the port, c)imaging a blood vessel using the ultrasound probe and the infraredsensor by contacting the surface of the skin of the individual with thebottom surface of the cartridge, d) identifying the needle insertionpoint on the display screen, e) adjusting the needle holder angle andmoving the needle longitudinally, through the cartridge inlet, therebyintroducing the needle at the needle insertion point and into the bloodvessel, and f) collecting venous blood from the individual into theevacuated, blood collection tube.

Also described herein, in certain embodiments, are methods ofintroducing a catheter into target tissue in an individual in needthereof, using the insertion device, comprising: a) securing thecartridge to the cartridge receiver, b) imaging the target tissue usingthe ultrasound probe and the infrared sensor by contacting the surfaceof the skin of the individual with the bottom surface of the cartridge,c) identifying the needle insertion point on the display screen, and d)adjusting the needle holder angle and moving the catheterlongitudinally, through the cartridge inlet, thereby introducing thecatheter at the catheter insertion point and into the target tissue.

Certain Definitions

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularcases only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, thesingular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the pluralforms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “including,” “includes,”“having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either thedetailed description and/or the claims, such terms are intended to beinclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

Unless otherwise stated, the following terms used in this applicationhave the definitions given below. The use of the term “including” aswell as other forms, such as “include”, “includes,” and “included,” isnot limiting. The section headings used herein are for organizationalpurposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matterdescribed.

Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention arepresented in a range format. It should be understood that thedescription in range format is merely for convenience and brevity andshould not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of theinvention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be consideredto have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well asindividual numerical values within that range. For example, descriptionof a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specificallydisclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numberswithin that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This appliesregardless of the breadth of the range.

The term “about” or “approximately” refers to an amount that is near thestated amount by about 10%, 5%, or 1%, including increments therein. Forexample, “about” or “approximately” means a range including theparticular value and ranging from 10% below that particular value andspanning to 10% above that particular value.

The terms “individual,” “patient,” or “subject” are usedinterchangeably. None of the terms require or are limited to situationcharacterized by the supervision (e.g. constant or intermittent) of ahealth care worker (e.g. a doctor, a registered nurse, a nursepractitioner, a physician's assistant, an orderly, or a hospice worker).The terms “individual,” “patient,” or “subject” encompass mammals.Examples of mammals include, but are not limited to, any member of theMammalian class: humans, non-human primates such as chimpanzees, andother apes and monkey species; farm animals such as cattle, horses,sheep, goats, swine; domestic animals such as rabbits, dogs, and cats;laboratory animals including rodents, such as rats, mice and guineapigs, and the like. In some embodiments, the mammal is a human.

The terms “user,” “health care worker,” “doctor,” and “physician” areused interchangeably. These terms refer to any person that operates thedevices described herein. Additional non-limiting examples of a userinclude “registered nurse,” “nurse practitioner,” and “physician'sassistant.”

The term “proximal,” as used herein, is defined as situated closest ornearer to the user holding and/or operating the insertion device, unlessotherwise indicated.

The term “distal,” as used herein, is defined as situated farthest tothe user holding and/or operating the insertion device, unless otherwiseindicated.

The term “lateral,” as used herein, is defined as situated and/or movingtowards, closer, or nearer to the sides (e.g., right or left) of theinsertion device, unless otherwise indicated.

The term “medial,” as used herein, is defined as situated closer ornearer to the midline of the device, unless otherwise indicated.

The term “ultrasound transducer” and “ultrasound probe,” as used herein,are used interchangeably.

Needle Insertion Devices

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are insertion devices forinserting a needle into a target tissue in an individual in needthereof. Also disclosed herein, are imaging devices for locating atarget tissue in an individual in need thereof. In some embodiments, theimaging devices comprise an ultrasound transducer configured to emit andreceive an ultrasound wave. In some embodiments, the imaging devicescomprise an infrared sensor configured to emit and receive an infraredradiation.

In some embodiments, the target tissue is a blood vessel. In someembodiments, the target tissue is the lumen of a blood vessel. In someembodiments, the blood vessel is a vein, a venule, an artery, or acapillary.

In some embodiments, the target tissue is a vein. In some embodiments,the vein is a cephalic vein. In some embodiments, the vein is a basilicvein. In some embodiments, the vein is a median cephalic vein. In someembodiments, the vein is a median cubital vein. In some embodiments, thevein is a vein in the antecubital fossa. In some embodiments, the veinis an internal jugular vein. In some embodiments, the vein is asubclavian vein. In some embodiments, the vein is a peripheral vein. Insome embodiments, the peripheral vein is a peripheral vein in an arm. Insome embodiments, the peripheral vein is a peripheral vein in a hand. Insome embodiments, the peripheral vein is a peripheral vein in a leg. Insome embodiments, the peripheral vein is a peripheral vein in a foot. Insome embodiments, the vein is a jugular vein, a hepatic vein, a basilicvein, a saphenous vein, a cephalic vein, a superior vena cava, aninferior vena cava, a pulmonary vein, a subclavian vein, a common iliacvein, an axillary vein, a portal vein, a renal vein, a popliteal vein, abrachiocephalic vein, a posterior tibial vein, a vertebral vein, amedian cubital vein, an anterior tibial vein, a retromandibular vein, afemoral vein, a vein from a pterygoid plexus, an azygos vein, a superiormesenteric vein, a posterior auricular vein, a superior sagittal sinusvein, a superior ophthalmic vein, an internal iliac vein, a superficialtemporal vein, a coronary sinus, a diploic vein, an anterior jugularvein, a common facial vein, a nasofrontal vein, an occipital vein, anexternal iliac vein, a deep vein of the thigh, an inferior ophthalmicvein, a vein connecting to an inferior petrosal sinus, an inferiorthyroid vein, a splenic vein, a median antebrachial vein, a veinconnecting to a superior petrosal sinus, a middle thyroid vein, a deepfacial vein, a vein connecting to an inferior sagittal sinus, or afrontal vein. In some embodiments, the jugular vein is an internaljugular vein or an exterior jugular vein.

In some embodiments, the artery is an elastic artery or a distributingartery. In some embodiments, the artery is an aorta, an internal carotidartery, an external iliac artery, an internal iliac artery, a commoncarotid artery, a common iliac artery, a brachiocephalic artery, aradial artery, a subclavian artery, a femoral artery, a brachial artery,a popliteal artery, a pulmonary artery, a vertebral artery, an aorticarch, a left coronary artery, an external carotid artery, an abdominalaorta, an ulnar artery, a celiac artery, a right coronary artery, anaxillary artery, a common hepatic artery, a splenic artery, an anteriortibial artery, a superior mesenteric artery, an internal thoracicartery, a descending thoracic aorta, an anterior interventricular branchof a left coronary artery, a posterior tibial artery, an ascendingaorta, a maxillary artery, a descending aorta, a left gastric artery, adorsalis pedis artery, an ophthalmic artery, a thyrocervical trunk, aninferior mesenteric artery, a costocervical trunk, a deep artery of athigh, an occipital artery, a supraorbital artery, an angular artery, amedian sacral artery, an anterior ethmoidal artery, a posteriorethmoidal artery, a basilar artery, a superficial temporal artery, arenal artery, a circle of Willis, or a middle cerebral artery.

In some embodiments, the target tissue is a joint. In some embodiments,the joint is a synovial joint, a cartilaginous joint, a facet joint, ora synovial joint. In some embodiments, the target tissue is a knee. Insome embodiments, the target tissue is a meniscus, an anterior cruciateligament, a posterior cruciate ligament, a lateral collateral ligament,or a medial collateral ligament. In some embodiments, the target tissueis a soft tissue. In some embodiments, the soft tissue comprises atendon, a ligament, fascia, a fibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, anerve, a muscle, skin, or a synovial membrane. In some embodiments, thetarget tissue is a calcified tissue. In some embodiments, the calcifiedtissue is a bone. In some embodiments, the soft tissue is a neoplasm. Insome embodiments, the neoplasm is benign. In some embodiments, theneoplasm is malignant.

In some embodiments, the target tissue is an organ. In some embodiments,the organ is a liver, a pancreas, a stomach, a large intestine, a smallintestine, a lung, a heart, skin, an esophagus, a duodenum, a jejunum,an ileum, a gallbladder, a mesentery, an appendix, a diaphragm, anovary, a fallopian tube, a uterus, a vagina, a placenta, a prostate, atestis, a thyroid gland, a parathyroid gland, an adrenal gland, aspleen, a tonsil, a spinal cord, a bone marrow, In some embodiments, thetarget tissue is a lymphatic vessel or a lymph node. In someembodiments, the target tissue is a nerve. In some embodiments, thetarget tissue is a ligament, a muscle, or a tendon. In some embodiments,the target tissue is a breast or a mammary tissue. In some embodiments,the target tissue is a membrane of the human body. In some embodiments,the membrane is a mucous membrane, a serous membrane, a cutaneousmembrane, or a synovial membrane. In some embodiments, the insertiondevices described herein aid in the insertion of a medical device (e.g.,a needle) into a target tissue location and penetrate through skinand/or other organs, or through one or more membranes of the body.

FIG. 1A shows a front view of the insertion device 100. In someembodiments, the present description provides an insertion device 100with a user interface that allows for insertion of a needle and/orcatheter into an individual. In some embodiments, the insertion device100 comprises a housing 122. In some embodiments, the housing 122protects internal elements of the insertion device 100 such as, but notlimited to, electric circuitry, a power source, an ultrasoundtransducer, and/or an infrared sensor. In some embodiments, the housingcomprises an ultrasound transducer (not shown in FIG. 1A).

In some embodiments, the housing comprises at least one handle. In someembodiments, the housing comprises at least two handles. In someembodiments, the housing 122 comprises a right handle 104 a and a lefthandle 104 b, as shown in FIG. 1A. In some embodiments, the right handle104 a and the left handle 104 b are ergonomically shaped. In someembodiments, the right handle 104 a and the left handle 104 b help theuser to control the position of the insertion device 100. In someembodiments, the right handle 104 a protrudes from a right side of theinsertion device 100 and the left handle 104 b protrudes from a leftside of the insertion device 100. In some embodiments, the right handle104 a and the left handle 104 b comprise a user hardware interface.

In some embodiments, the user hardware interface comprises a pluralityof knobs, buttons, sliders, switches, and/or touchscreens, as shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B. In some embodiments, the user hardware interface islocated on any suitable part of the insertion device 100. For example,in some embodiments, the user hardware interface is located on aproximal side of the housing 122. In some embodiments, the user hardwareinterface is located on a distal side of the housing 122. In someembodiments, the user hardware comprises a positioning dial 116, a gearwheel 112, a needle withdrawal button 106, a catheter insertion button108, an infrared sensor button 114, and a needle insertion button 110.In some embodiments, the positioning dial 116 adjusts the longitudinallocation of the needle holder (not shown in FIG. 1A). In someembodiments, the gear wheel 112 adjusts the angle of the needle (notshown in FIG. 1A). In some embodiments, the needle is alternativelyadjusted manually; for example, by moving the needle holder and/orsyringe using a knob and/or gears.

In some embodiments, the location of the positioning dial 116 is on adistal end of the left handle 104 b, as shown in FIG. 1A. In someembodiments, the location of the gear wheel 112 is on a distal end ofthe right handle 104 b, as shown in FIG. 1A. In some embodiments, theneedle withdraw button 106, the catheter insertion button 108, theneedle insertion button 110, and the infrared sensor button 114 comprisea virtual switch, a physical switch, or any combination thereof. In someembodiments, the needle withdraw button 106 allows the user to extractthe needle from the patient following an injection. In some embodiments,the needle insertion button 110 controls the backward movement of theneedle. In some embodiments, the needle insertion button 110 controlsthe retraction of the needle. In some embodiments, the needle withdrawbutton 106 is located on the distal end of the right handle 104 apositioned distal to the gear wheel 112. In some embodiments, thecatheter insertion button 108 allows the user to insert a catheter intothe patient after adjusting the location of the needle. In someembodiments, the catheter insertion button 108 controls the forwardmovement of the catheter. In some embodiments, the catheter insertionbutton 108 controls the deployment of the catheter into the targettissue of the individual. In some embodiments, the catheter insertionbutton 108 is located on the right handle 104 a laterally to the gearwheel 112.

In some embodiments, the needle insertion button 110 allows the user toinsert the needle into the individual for injection after adjusting thelocation of the needle. In some embodiments, the needle insertion button110 controls the forward movement of the needle. In some embodiments,the needle insertion button 110 controls the deployment of the needleinto a target tissue of the individual. The needle insertion button 110is located on the right handle 104 a laterally to the gear wheel 112 anddistally to the needle insertion button 110. In some embodiments, theinfrared sensor button 114 allows the user to activate the infraredsensor prior to injection. In some embodiments, the infrared sensorbutton 114 is located on the left handle 104 b distally to the gearwheel 112. In some embodiments, the user hardware interface elements(e.g., buttons, knobs, sliders, switches, and/or touchscreens) of theinsertion device 100 are placed in any suitable configuration.

In some embodiments, the insertion device 100 comprises a display screen102 for viewing an image of a target tissue. In some embodiments, theimage is an ultrasound image. In some embodiments, the image is aninfrared image. In some embodiments, the image is a combination of anultrasound image and an infrared image. In some embodiments, the size ofthe display screen 102 and the resolution of the display screen 102varies in combination. In some embodiments, the display screen 102 islocated on the distal end of the device, farthest to the user, when thedevice is placed on the surface of the skin of the patient, as seen inFIG. 1A, for example.

FIG. 1B shows the insertion device 100 displaying an exemplary image 124of a target tissue when the insertion device 100 is being pressedagainst the skin of the individual 132. In some embodiments, the visualinformation provided to the user via a display screen is an image 124.In some embodiments, the image 124 is an ultrasound image. In someembodiments, the image 124 is an infrared image. In some embodiments,the image 124 is a combination of an ultrasound image and an infraredimage. In some embodiments, the image 124 is an ultrasound imagerepresenting a target tissue (e.g., a blood vessel). In someembodiments, the image 124 is an infrared image representing a targettissue (e.g., a blood vessel). In some embodiments, the image 124 is acombination of an ultrasound image and an infrared image representing atarget tissue (e.g., a blood vessel). In some embodiments, thecombination of the ultrasound image and the infrared image is asuperimposed image. In some embodiments, the combination of theultrasound image and the infrared image are displayed side by side onthe display screen. In some embodiments, the user selects which type ofimage (e.g., ultrasound or infrared) she or he desires to viewindividually or in combination.

In some embodiments, the image 124 comprises a needle entry locationwith respect to the target tissue of the patient. In some embodiments,the image 124 comprises an indicator that guides the user to insert theneedle into the target tissue location. In some embodiments, the image124 comprises an indicator that indicates the location of the targettissue. In some embodiments, the indicator is an indicator line 126, asshown in FIG. 1B. In some embodiments, the indicator line 126 is alignedwith the midline of a blood vessel lumen. In some embodiments, theindicator line 126 is aligned with the midline of a target tissue. Insome embodiments, the indicator is an indicator marking 128, as shown inFIG. 1B. In some embodiments, the indicator marking 128 is aligned withthe midline of a blood vessel lumen. In some embodiments, the indicatormarking 128 is aligned with the midline of a target tissue. In someembodiments, a dotted line is displayed on the display screen 102 torepresent the indicator marking 128. In some embodiments, the indicatorline 126 displays the midline of the applicable tissue. In someembodiments, the indicator line 126 is automatically adjusted in realtime by the insertion device 100. In some embodiments, the indicatorline 126 adjusts in real time based on the inputs of the positioningdial 116. In some embodiments, the dotted indicator line 126 reflectsthe movement of the needle laterally. In some embodiments, a solid “x”marking is displayed on the display screen 102 to represent theinsertion indicator marking 128. In some embodiments, the insertionindicator marking 128 displays the point of insertion within the tissue.In some embodiments, the insertion indicator marking 128 adjusts in realtime based on the inputs of the gear wheel. In some embodiments, themarking 128 reflects the movement of the needle proximally.

In some embodiments, the image 124 comprises a position or a location ofthe needle during insertion (i.e., the needle position and/or the needlelocation is displayed in real time on the display screen). In someembodiments, the image 124 comprises a projected track of the needle. Insome embodiments, the projected track of the needle guides the user toinsert the needle at a target tissue location. In some embodiments, theprojected track of the needle displays an entry point location at theskin level of the patient. In some embodiments, the entry point locationat the skin level of the patient is represented by the indicator marking128. In some embodiments, the projected track of the needle comprises aline, one or more dashes, one or more letters, a geometric figure, orany other type of marker or visual cue that is displayed on the displayscreen. In some embodiments, the projected track of the needle is aprojected needle position (i.e., an estimated location of the needle) atthe skin level (i.e., a skin level insertion point) and/orsubcutaneously (i.e., estimated location of the needle once the needlehas been inserted into the tissue of the patient). In some embodiments,the image 124 comprises a label 130, as shown in FIG. 1B. In someembodiments, the label 130 displays the name of the image file, the nameof the patient, the target tissue type, the procedure being performed,or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the user interface of the insertion device 100,allows for a real-time display of the target tissue and adjustment ofneedle positioning. In some embodiments, the display screen comprises anadjustable indicator line 126 based on the settings input by the user.In some embodiments, as the user adjusts the settings using theplurality of switches and gears, the indicator line 126 on the displayscreen 102 automatically adjusts to display the adjusted indicator line126 prior to inserting a needle into the arm of the patient 132. In someembodiments, the settings input by the user modify the insertionindicator marking 128. In some embodiments, the visual display of theinsertion indicator marking 128 allows the user to identify the targettissue. In some embodiments, the label 130 provides the user withrelevant information, such as, but not limited to personal userinformation, the type of cartridge attached to the insertion device 100,the type of device to be inserted (e.g., the type of needle orcartridge), the substance to be administered (e.g., a drug), and/or anyrelevant dosage information. In some embodiments, the label 130 islocated on the distal, left edge of the image 124, as shown in FIG. 1B.In some embodiments, the label 130 is located on any suitable part ofthe image 124.

FIG. 2A shows an isometric view of the bottom or distal side of theinsertion device 100. FIG. 2A also shows the cartridge 134 prior tobeing attached to the cartridge receiver 118. FIG. 2B shows theinsertion device after the cartridge 134 is attached to the cartridgereceiver 118. In some embodiments, the present description provides adevice for implementing an ultrasound, an infrared sensor, and/or avacuum suction technology for aid in needle and/or catheter insertion.In some embodiments, the housing 122 comprises a cartridge receiver 118.In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver 118 comprises a plurality offirst connectors. As shown in FIG. 2A, in some embodiments, theplurality of first connectors comprises an upper left connector 142 a,an upper right connector 142 b, a lower right connector 142 c, and alower right connector 142 d. In some embodiments, the plurality of firstconnectors is a plurality of tabs, snap fit connectors, male connectors,and/or female connectors.

In some embodiments, the insertion device 100 comprises a cartridge 134.In some embodiments, the cartridge 134 has a top surface (not shown inFIG. 2A), a bottom surface (the side shown in FIG. 2A), a proximal end123, and a distal end 121. In some embodiments, the cartridge 134 isconfigured to be coupled to the cartridge receiver 118. In someembodiments, the cartridge 134 comprises a plurality of secondconnectors (not shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). In some embodiments, theplurality of second connectors is located on the top surface of thecartridge 134. In some embodiments, the plurality of second connectorsis configured to form an electrical connection with the plurality offirst connectors of the cartridge receiver 118.

FIG. 2B shows the cartridge 134 prior to being attached to the insertiondevice 100. In some embodiments, the cartridge 134 fits into thecartridge receiver 118 on the insertion device 100. In some embodiments,the cartridge is located medially between the right handle 104 a and theleft handle 104 b. In some embodiments, the port 120 serves an openingto allow for the insertion of tubing into the device. In someembodiments, the port 120 comprises means for manually adjusting theangle of the needle prior to needle insertion. In some embodiments, theport 120 is located on the distal end of the insertion device 100 and onthe dorsal side of the device.

In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 contains the needle andsyringe (not shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). In some embodiments, the needleextends from the proximal end of the needle holder 127 to the distal endof the needle holder 125 when placed within the track. In someembodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises a needle holder opening160. In some embodiments, the needle exits through the needle holderopening 160. In some embodiments, the needle holder opening 160 facesthe distal end of the cartridge 121. In some embodiments, the needleholder opening 160 is aligned with the center of the plate 135.

In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises a port 115. In someembodiments, the port 115 is located at the proximal end 127 of theneedle holder. In some embodiments, the port 115 comprises a tubularbody defining a cavity therein. In some embodiments, the tubular bodyconnects to the interior of the needle holder 138. In some embodiments,the port 115 is intended to be accessed with tubing. In someembodiments, the tubing is in fluid communication with the syringe andneedle. In some embodiments, the port 115 is intended to be accessedwith a tube 120. In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises acollection tube configured to be received by the port 115. In someembodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises a port lever configured tobe received by the port 115. In some embodiments, the port lever is aprojecting arm or handle. In some embodiments, the user manuallycontrols and/or adjusts the angle of the needle holder by moving theport lever. In some embodiments, the user manually controls and/oradjusts the angle of the needle holder by manually moving the port leverwithin a needle holder track 136, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 2B. Insome embodiments, the tube 120 is in fluid communication with thesyringe and needle. In some embodiments, the tube 120 is a bloodcollection tube. In some embodiments, the fluid flows in eitherdirection (i.e., from the tube 120 to the syringe or vice versa). Insome embodiments, the fluid is under negative or positive pressure. Insome embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises a port lever or acollection tube configured to be received by the port 115. In someembodiments, the port 115 serves an opening to allow for the insertionof tubing into the device.

In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver 118 comprises a frame 146having a rail on either of its sides. In some embodiments, the rail isconfigured to secure the needle holder 138. In some embodiments, therail is configured to secure the cartridge 134. In some embodiments, thecartridge receiver 118 comprises a receiver opening 119. In someembodiments, the receiver opening 119 is configured to receive thecartridge 134 and the needle holder 138. In some embodiments, thereceiver opening 119 has a rectangular shape, as shown in FIG. 2A. Insome embodiments, the needle holder 138 fits within the receiver opening119 once attached to the cartridge receiver 118.

FIG. 3A shows the insertion device 100 positioned on the surface of theskin of a patient. In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139,shown in FIG. 3B, s adjusted prior to injection. FIG. 3A shows a needleholder angle of about 0 degrees. In some embodiments, the position ofthe needle holder opening 160, as shown in FIG. 2A, is adjusted by theinsertion device 100. FIG. 3A shows the direction of movement 148 of theneedle holder 138 in this example. In some embodiments, the direction ofmovement 148 occurs from a proximal to a distal position, with respectto the patient and as depicted in FIG. 3A. In some embodiments, thedirection of movement 148 occurs from a right lateral to a left lateralposition, with respect to the patient. In some embodiments, the positionof the needle, located within the cartridge 134, is adjusted and/ormoved longitudinally by the insertion device 100. In some embodiments,the direction of movement 148 is the depth of the needle (i.e., in thez-plane). In some embodiments, the user is able to adjust the directionof movement 148 by using the interface of the insertion device 100.

FIG. 3B shows the needle holder 138 at a needle holder angle 139 greaterthan about 0 degrees. In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139is adjusted based on the settings input by the user. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is the angle between the plate135 and the bottom surface of the needle holder 138. In someembodiments, the plate 135 is placed directly above the surface of theskin of the patient 132 prior to insertion of the needle, as shown inFIG. 3B.

FIG. 4A shows an isometric view of the needle holder 138. In someembodiments, the needle holder 138 is composed of a metal and/or polymermaterial. In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprise a track164, as shown in FIG. 4A. In some embodiments, the needle holdercomprises one or more tracks. In some embodiments, the track 134 isconfigured to receive a needle. In some embodiments, the track 134extends from the proximal end of the cartridge 123 to the distal end ofthe cartridge 121. In some embodiments, the track 134 is configured toreceive a catheter. In some embodiments, the track 134 is configured toreceive a syringe 165. In some embodiments, the track 134 is configuredto receive tubing. In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprisesprongs, magnets, clips, tabs, or any other suitable means for physicallyengaging the syringe and/or catheter. In some embodiments, the track 164aligns a needle. In some embodiments, the syringe 165 sits on the track134. In some embodiments, the syringe 165 is aligned with the track 134.

In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises a catheter advancer156. In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises a needleadvancer 158. In some embodiments, the catheter advancer 156 isoperatively connected to one or more actuators of the insertion device100. In some embodiments, the catheter advancer 156 is configured tomove the position of the catheter (e.g., advance and/or retract thecatheter along the track 134 and/or into the patient). In someembodiments, the needle advancer 158 is operatively connected to one ormore actuators of the insertion device 100. In some embodiments, theneedle advancer 158 is configured to move the position of the needle(e.g., advance and/or retract the needle and/or syringe along the track134 and/or into the patient). In some embodiments, the user enacts theproper advancer using the user interface. In some embodiments, thisenactment results in the insertion of the needle or catheter into thepatient.

FIG. 4B shows the insertion device 100 deploying the syringe 165 andinserting the needle with a catheter 154 into a blood vessel 166 of thepatient. FIG. 4C shows the catheter 170 deployed within the blood vessel166 of the patient, and the needle 168 as it is retracted away from thecatheter 170 and back into the needle holder 138. FIG. 4D shows theimage 125 of the blood vessel 166 displayed on the display screen of theinsertion device 100 as a catheter is being inserted into the bloodvessel of the patient. In some embodiments, the image 125 comprises anindicator marking 128 and an indicator line 126, as shown in FIG. 4D. Insome embodiments, the indicator marking 128 labels a needle insertionlocation prior to the needle being inserted. In some embodiments, theindicator marking 128 labels the needle location after the needle isinserted. In some embodiments, the indicator line 126 aligns with theindicator marking 128.

FIG. 5 shows various types of cartridges. In some embodiments, thecartridge 134 is loaded with a needle, catheter, and/or tubing necessaryfor a specific application (e.g., peripheral intravenous line orcatheter placement) prior to being used and/or received by the user. Insome embodiments, the cartridge is a peripheral intravenous site andphlebotomy cartridge 174. In some embodiments, the cartridge is aguidewire introducer cartridge 176 for peripherally inserted centralcatheter (PICC) lines and for central lines. In some embodiments, thecartridge is a targeted never and joint injection cartridge 178. In someembodiments, the cartridge is a tissue biopsy cartridge 180. In someembodiments, the different types of cartridges are easily differentiatedfrom one another by the user. For example, in some embodiments, thedifferent types of cartridges are labeled with different colors (i.e.,the plates vary in color). In other embodiments, the different types ofcartridges are clearly labeled with text indicating the type ofcartridge and recommended use.

FIG. 6 shows a bottom view of another embodiment of the insertiondevice. An insertion device 200, as shown in FIG. 6, comprises acartridge 234. In some embodiments, the cartridge 234 comprises a distalportion 234 a and a proximal portion 234 b, with respect to the user, asshown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the distal portion of thecartridge 234 a sits in between the first handle 104 a and the secondhandle 104 b. In some embodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge234 a is reversibly attached to the insertion device. In someembodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a is permanentlyattached to the insertion device. In some embodiments, the distalportion of the cartridge 234 a is attached to the insertion device 200via a first attachment locking point 204 a, a second attachment lockingpoint 204 b, a third attachment locking point 204 c, a fourth attachmentlocking point 204 d, a fifth attachment locking point 204 e, and a sixthattachment locking point 204 f. In some embodiments, the attachmentlocking point is a tab. In some embodiments, the attachment lockingpoint is a snap-on fixture. In some embodiments, the attachment lockingpoint is a magnet.

In some embodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a comprisesa first suction area 210 c, a second suction area 210 b, and a thirdsuction area 210 c. In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a islocated distally from the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b. Insome embodiments, the first suction area 210 a is located distally fromthe second suction area 210 b and the third suction area 210 c, as shownin FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a is locateddistally from the second suction area 210 b and the third suction area210 c, as shown in FIG. 6. Alternatively, in some embodiments, thesecond suction area 210 b and the third suction area 210 c are locateddistally from the first suction area 210 a. In some embodiments, thefirst suction area 210 a, the second suction area 210 b, and the thirdsuction area 210 c are aligned along the length l′″ of the distalportion of the cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, the first suctionarea 210 a, the second suction area 210 b, and the third suction area210 c are aligned along the width w′″ of the distal portion of thecartridge 234 a. In other embodiments, any other suitable arrangement ofthe first suction area 210 a, the second suction area 210 b, and thethird suction area 210 c is used.

In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a is larger in surfacearea than the second suction area 210 b and the third suction area 210c, as shown in FIG. 6. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the surfacearea of the first suction area 210 a is smaller than the surface area ofthe second suction area 210 b and the third suction area 210 c. In yetanother embodiment, the surface areas of the first suction area 210 a,the second suction area 210 b, and the third suction area 210 c are allabout equal.

In some embodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a has arectangular shape having a length l′″ and a width w′″, as shown in FIG.6. In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a has a rectangularshape having a length l and a width w, as shown in FIG. 6. In someembodiments, the width w of the first suction area 210 a spans about 90%of the width w′″ of the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In someembodiments, the length l of the first suction area 210 a is about 15%of the length l′″ of the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In someembodiments, the first suction area 210 a is centered between the firstattachment locking point 204 a and the fourth attachment locking point204 d, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the first suction area210 a has a circular shape, a triangular shape, a square shape, or anyother suitable shape.

In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a has a width w rangingfrom about 0.5 inches (in.) to about 6 in. or more. In some embodiments,the first suction area 210 a has a width w ranging from at least about0.5 in. In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a has a width wranging from at most about 6 in. In some embodiments, the first suctionarea 210 a has a width w ranging from about 0.5 in. to about 1 in.,about 0.5 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 2 in., about 0.5in. to about 2.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 3 in., about 0.5 in. toabout 3.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 4 in., about 0.5 in. to about 4.5in., about 0.5 in. to about 5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 5.5 in., about0.5 in. to about 6 in., about 1 in. to about 1.5 in., about 1 in. toabout 2 in., about 1 in. to about 2.5 in., about 1 in. to about 3 in.,about 1 in. to about 3.5 in., about 1 in. to about 4 in., about 1 in. toabout 4.5 in., about 1 in. to about 5 in., about 1 in. to about 5.5 in.,about 1 in. to about 6 in., about 1.5 in. to about 2 in., about 1.5 in.to about 2.5 in., about 1.5 in. to about 3 in., about 1.5 in. to about3.5 in., about 1.5 in. to about 4 in., about 1.5 in. to about 4.5 in.,about 1.5 in. to about 5 in., about 1.5 in. to about 5.5 in., about 1.5in. to about 6 in., about 2 in. to about 2.5 in., about 2 in. to about 3in., about 2 in. to about 3.5 in., about 2 in. to about 4 in., about 2in. to about 4.5 in., about 2 in. to about 5 in., about 2 in. to about5.5 in., about 2 in. to about 6 in., about 2.5 in. to about 3 in., about2.5 in. to about 3.5 in., about 2.5 in. to about 4 in., about 2.5 in. toabout 4.5 in., about 2.5 in. to about 5 in., about 2.5 in. to about 5.5in., about 2.5 in. to about 6 in., about 3 in. to about 3.5 in., about 3in. to about 4 in., about 3 in. to about 4.5 in., about 3 in. to about 5in., about 3 in. to about 5.5 in., about 3 in. to about 6 in., about 3.5in. to about 4 in., about 3.5 in. to about 4.5 in., about 3.5 in. toabout 5 in., about 3.5 in. to about 5.5 in., about 3.5 in. to about 6in., about 4 in. to about 4.5 in., about 4 in. to about 5 in., about 4in. to about 5.5 in., about 4 in. to about 6 in., about 4.5 in. to about5 in., about 4.5 in. to about 5.5 in., about 4.5 in. to about 6 in.,about 5 in. to about 5.5 in., about 5 in. to about 6 in., or about 5.5in. to about 6 in. In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a hasa width w ranging from about 0.5 in., about 1 in., about 1.5 in., about2 in., about 2.5 in., about 3 in., about 3.5 in., about 4 in., about 4.5in., about 5 in., about 5.5 in., or about 6 in.

In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a has a length l rangingfrom about 0.25 in. to about 5.5 in. or more. In some embodiments, thefirst suction area 210 a has a length l ranging from at least about 0.25in. In some embodiments, the first suction area 210 a has a length lranging from at most about 5.5 in. In some embodiments, the firstsuction area 210 a has a length l ranging from about 0.25 in. to about0.5 in., about 0.25 in. to about 1 in., about 0.25 in. to about 1.5 in.,about 0.25 in. to about 2 in., about 0.25 in. to about 2.5 in., about0.25 in. to about 3 in., about 0.25 in. to about 3.5 in., about 0.25 in.to about 4 in., about 0.25 in. to about 4.5 in., about 0.25 in. to about5 in., about 0.25 in. to about 5.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 1 in.,about 0.5 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 2 in., about 0.5in. to about 2.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 3 in., about 0.5 in. toabout 3.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 4 in., about 0.5 in. to about 4.5in., about 0.5 in. to about 5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 5.5 in., about1 in. to about 1.5 in., about 1 in. to about 2 in., about 1 in. to about2.5 in., about 1 in. to about 3 in., about 1 in. to about 3.5 in., about1 in. to about 4 in., about 1 in. to about 4.5 in., about 1 in. to about5 in., about 1 in. to about 5.5 in., about 1.5 in. to about 2 in., about1.5 in. to about 2.5 in., about 1.5 in. to about 3 in., about 1.5 in. toabout 3.5 in., about 1.5 in. to about 4 in., about 1.5 in. to about 4.5in., about 1.5 in. to about 5 in., about 1.5 in. to about 5.5 in., about2 in. to about 2.5 in., about 2 in. to about 3 in., about 2 in. to about3.5 in., about 2 in. to about 4 in., about 2 in. to about 4.5 in., about2 in. to about 5 in., about 2 in. to about 5.5 in., about 2.5 in. toabout 3 in., about 2.5 in. to about 3.5 in., about 2.5 in. to about 4in., about 2.5 in. to about 4.5 in., about 2.5 in. to about 5 in., about2.5 in. to about 5.5 in., about 3 in. to about 3.5 in., about 3 in. toabout 4 in., about 3 in. to about 4.5 in., about 3 in. to about 5 in.,about 3 in. to about 5.5 in., about 3.5 in. to about 4 in., about 3.5in. to about 4.5 in., about 3.5 in. to about 5 in., about 3.5 in. toabout 5.5 in., about 4 in. to about 4.5 in., about 4 in. to about 5 in.,about 4 in. to about 5.5 in., about 4.5 in. to about 5 in., about 4.5in. to about 5.5 in., or about 5 in. to about 5.5 in. In someembodiments, the first suction area 210 a has a length l ranging fromabout 0.25 in., about 0.5 in., about 1 in., about 1.5 in., about 2 in.,about 2.5 in., about 3 in., about 3.5 in., about 4 in., about 4.5 in.,about 5 in., or about 5.5 in.

In some embodiments, the second suction area 210 b has a rectangularshape having a length l′ and a width w′. In some embodiments, the widthof the second suction area 210 b spans about 25% of the width w′″ of thedistal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, the lengthl′ of the second suction area 210 b is about 10% of the length l′″ ofthe distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, thesecond suction area 210 b is located on a lateral region of the distalportion of the cartridge 234 a, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments,the second suction area 210 b is adjacent to the third attachmentlocking point 204 c, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the secondsuction area 210 b is located at the base of the distal portion of thecartridge 234 a, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the secondsuction area 210 b is proximal to the sensor area 212, as shown in FIG.6. In some embodiments, the second suction area 210 b has a circularshape, a triangular shape, a square shape, or any other suitable shape.

In some embodiments, the second suction area 210 b has a width w′ranging from about 0.1 in. to about 5 in. or more. In some embodiments,the second suction area 210 b has a width w′ ranging from at least about0.1 in. In some embodiments, the second suction area 210 b has a widthw′ ranging from at most about 5 in. In some embodiments, the secondsuction area 210 b has a width w′ ranging from about 0.1 in. to about0.2 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.3 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.4 in.,about 0.1 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.75 in., about0.1 in. to about 1 in., about 0.1 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.1 in. toabout 3 in., about 0.1 in. to about 5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.3in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.5 in.,about 0.2 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.2 in. to about 1 in., about 0.2in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 3 in., about 0.2 in. toabout 5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.5in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.3 in. to about 1 in.,about 0.3 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 3 in., about 0.3in. to about 5 in., about 0.4 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.4 in. toabout 0.75 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1.5in., about 0.4 in. to about 3 in., about 0.4 in. to about 5 in., about0.5 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.5 in. to about 1 in., about 0.5 in.to about 1.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 3 in., about 0.5 in. to about 5in., about 0.75 in. to about 1 in., about 0.75 in. to about 1.5 in.,about 0.75 in. to about 3 in., about 0.75 in. to about 5 in., about 1in. to about 1.5 in., about 1 in. to about 3 in., about 1 in. to about 5in., about 1.5 in. to about 3 in., about 1.5 in. to about 5 in., orabout 3 in. to about 5 in. In some embodiments, the second suction area210 b has a width w′ ranging from about 0.1 in., about 0.2 in., about0.3 in., about 0.4 in., about 0.5 in., about 0.75 in., about 1 in.,about 1.5 in., about 3 in., or about 5 in.

In some embodiments, the second suction area 210 b has a length l′ranging from about 0.1 in. to about 5 in. or more. In some embodiments,the second suction area 210 b has a length l′ ranging from at leastabout 0.1 in. In some embodiments, the second suction area 210 b has alength l′ ranging from at most about 5 in. In some embodiments, thesecond suction area 210 b has a length l′ ranging from about 0.1 in. toabout 0.2 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.3 in., about 0.1 in. to about0.4 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.75in., about 0.1 in. to about 1 in., about 0.1 in. to about 1.5 in., about0.1 in. to about 3 in., about 0.1 in. to about 5 in., about 0.2 in. toabout 0.3 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.2 in. to about0.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.2 in. to about 1 in.,about 0.2 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 3 in., about 0.2in. to about 5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.3 in. toabout 0.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.3 in. to about 1in., about 0.3 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 3 in., about0.3 in. to about 5 in., about 0.4 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.4 in. toabout 0.75 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1.5in., about 0.4 in. to about 3 in., about 0.4 in. to about 5 in., about0.5 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.5 in. to about 1 in., about 0.5 in.to about 1.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 3 in., about 0.5 in. to about 5in., about 0.75 in. to about 1 in., about 0.75 in. to about 1.5 in.,about 0.75 in. to about 3 in., about 0.75 in. to about 5 in., about 1in. to about 1.5 in., about 1 in. to about 3 in., about 1 in. to about 5in., about 1.5 in. to about 3 in., about 1.5 in. to about 5 in., orabout 3 in. to about 5 in. In some embodiments, the second suction area210 b has a length l′ ranging from about 0.1 in., about 0.2 in., about0.3 in., about 0.4 in., about 0.5 in., about 0.75 in., about 1 in.,about 1.5 in., about 3 in., or about 5 in.

In some embodiments, the third suction area 210 c has a rectangularshape having a length l″ and a width w″. In some embodiments, the widthof the third suction area 210 c spans about 25% of the width w′″ of thedistal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, the lengthl″ of the third suction area 210 c is about 10% of the length l′″ of thedistal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, the thirdsuction area 210 c is located on a lateral region of the distal portionof the cartridge 234 a, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, thethird suction area 210 c is adjacent to the sixth attachment lockingpoint 204 f, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the third suctionarea 210 c is located at the base of the distal portion of the cartridge234 a, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the third suction area210 c is proximal to the sensor area 212, as shown in FIG. 6. In someembodiments, the third suction area 210 c has a circular shape, atriangular shape, a square shape, or any other suitable shape.

In some embodiments, the third suction area 210 c has a width w″ rangingfrom about 0.1 in. to about 5 in. or more. In some embodiments, thethird suction area 210 c has a width w″ ranging from at least about 0.1in. In some embodiments, the third suction area 210 c has a width w″ranging from at most about 5 in. In some embodiments, the third suctionarea 210 c has a width w″ ranging from about 0.1 in. to about 0.2 in.,about 0.1 in. to about 0.3 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.4 in., about0.1 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.1 in.to about 1 in., about 0.1 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.1 in. to about 3in., about 0.1 in. to about 5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.3 in., about0.2 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.2 in.to about 0.75 in., about 0.2 in. to about 1 in., about 0.2 in. to about1.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 3 in., about 0.2 in. to about 5 in.,about 0.3 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.5 in., about0.3 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.3 in. to about 1 in., about 0.3 in.to about 1.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 3 in., about 0.3 in. to about 5in., about 0.4 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.4 in. to about 0.75 in.,about 0.4 in. to about 1 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.4in. to about 3 in., about 0.4 in. to about 5 in., about 0.5 in. to about0.75 in., about 0.5 in. to about 1 in., about 0.5 in. to about 1.5 in.,about 0.5 in. to about 3 in., about 0.5 in. to about 5 in., about 0.75in. to about 1 in., about 0.75 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.75 in. toabout 3 in., about 0.75 in. to about 5 in., about 1 in. to about 1.5in., about 1 in. to about 3 in., about 1 in. to about 5 in., about 1.5in. to about 3 in., about 1.5 in. to about 5 in., or about 3 in. toabout 5 in. In some embodiments, the third suction area 210 c has awidth w″ ranging from about 0.1 in., about 0.2 in., about 0.3 in., about0.4 in., about 0.5 in., about 0.75 in., about 1 in., about 1.5 in.,about 3 in., or about 5 in.

In some embodiments, the third suction area 210 c has a length l″ranging from about 0.1 in. to about 5 in. or more. In some embodiments,the third suction area 210 c has a length l″ ranging from at least about0.1 in. In some embodiments, the third suction area 210 c has a lengthl″ ranging from at most about 5 in. In some embodiments, the thirdsuction area 210 c has a length l″ ranging from about 0.1 in. to about0.2 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.3 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.4 in.,about 0.1 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.75 in., about0.1 in. to about 1 in., about 0.1 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.1 in. toabout 3 in., about 0.1 in. to about 5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.3in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.5 in.,about 0.2 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.2 in. to about 1 in., about 0.2in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 3 in., about 0.2 in. toabout 5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.5in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.3 in. to about 1 in.,about 0.3 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 3 in., about 0.3in. to about 5 in., about 0.4 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.4 in. toabout 0.75 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1.5in., about 0.4 in. to about 3 in., about 0.4 in. to about 5 in., about0.5 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.5 in. to about 1 in., about 0.5 in.to about 1.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 3 in., about 0.5 in. to about 5in., about 0.75 in. to about 1 in., about 0.75 in. to about 1.5 in.,about 0.75 in. to about 3 in., about 0.75 in. to about 5 in., about 1in. to about 1.5 in., about 1 in. to about 3 in., about 1 in. to about 5in., about 1.5 in. to about 3 in., about 1.5 in. to about 5 in., orabout 3 in. to about 5 in. In some embodiments, the third suction area210 c has a length l″ ranging from about 0.1 in., about 0.2 in., about0.3 in., about 0.4 in., about 0.5 in., about 0.75 in., about 1 in.,about 1.5 in., about 3 in., or about 5 in.

In some embodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a comprisesa sensor area 212. In some embodiments, the sensor area 212 has arectangular shape having a length l1 and a width w1, as shown in FIG. 6.In some embodiments, the width w1 of the sensor area 212 spans about 90%of the width w′″ of the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In someembodiments, the length l1 of the sensor area 212 is about 50% of thelength l′″ of the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In someembodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a comprises one ormore sensor areas. For example, in some embodiments, the distal portionof the cartridge 234 a comprises two, three, four, five, six, seven,eight, nine, ten, or more sensor areas. In some embodiments, the sensorarea 212 comprises an ultrasound sensor area. In some embodiments, theultrasound sensor area is the surface area of an ultrasound transducer.In some embodiments, the sensor area 212 comprises an ultrasoundtransducer 213. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the sensor area 212does not comprise an ultrasound transducer 213. In some embodiments, theultrasound transducer 213 is located within the housing of the insertiondevice. In some embodiments, the cartridge 234 does not comprise theultrasound transducer 213. In some embodiments, the sensor area 212 isan area that allows for the transmission of ultrasound waves. In someembodiments, the body of the ultrasound transducer 213 is located withinthe housing. In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducer 213 occupiesthe entire sensor area 212. In some embodiments, the ultrasoundtransducer 213 occupies a part of the sensor area 212.

In some embodiments, the sensor area 212 does not comprise an infraredsensor. In some embodiments, the infrared sensor is located within thehousing of the insertion device. In some embodiments, the cartridge 234does not comprise infrared sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor area212 is an area that allows for the transmission of infrared wavelengthsand/or wavelengths within the visible light spectrum. Alternatively, insome embodiments, the sensor area 212 comprises an infrared sensor area.In some embodiments, the sensor area comprises a first infrared sensor240 a, a second infrared sensor 240 b, a third infrared sensor 240 c,and a fourth infrared sensor 240 d. In some embodiments, the sensor area212 comprises five or more infrared sensors. For example, in someembodiments, the sensor area 212 comprises six, seven, eight, nine, ten,eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, or more infrared sensors.In some embodiments, the first infrared sensor 240 a, the secondinfrared sensor 240 b, the third infrared sensor 240 c, and the fourthinfrared sensor 240 d are each located in a corner of the sensor area212, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the infrared sensors arelocated throughout the surface of the distal portion of the cartridge234 a. In some embodiments, the first infrared sensor 240 a, the secondinfrared sensor 240 b, the third infrared sensor 240 c, and the fourthinfrared sensor 240 d are each located in a corner of the distal portionof the cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, the first infrared sensor240 a, the second infrared sensor 240 b, the third infrared sensor 240c, and the fourth infrared sensor 240 d are each located adjacent to anattachment locking point in the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a.

In some embodiments, the sensor area 212 comprises a thermoelectriccooling and vibration area 214. In some embodiments, the thermoelectriccooling and vibration area 214 has a rectangular shape having a lengthl2 and a width w2, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the width w2of the thermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 spans about 5% ofthe width w′″ of the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In someembodiments, the length l2 of the sensor area 212 is about 25% of thelength l′″ of the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In someembodiments, the thermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 comprisesa thermoelectric cooler. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric coolingand vibration area 214 comprises a vibrator. In some embodiments, thethermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 has a rectangular shape,as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling andvibration area 214 has a circular shape, a triangular shape, a squareshape, or any other suitable shape. In some embodiments, thethermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 is located at the base ofthe distal portion of the cartridge 234 a, as shown in FIG. 6. In someembodiments, the thermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 islocated between the second suction area 210 b and the third suction area210 c. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling and vibrationarea 214 is located adjacent to the sensor area 212. In someembodiments, the thermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 islocated adjacent to the ultrasound transducer 213. In some embodiments,the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a comprises one or morethermoelectric cooling and vibration areas. For example, in someembodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a comprises two,three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more thermoelectriccooling and vibration areas.

In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214has a width w2 ranging from about 0.1 in. to about 5 in. or more. Insome embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 hasa width w2 ranging from at least about 0.1 in. In some embodiments, thethermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 has a width w2 rangingfrom at most about 5 in. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric coolingand vibration area 214 has a width w2 ranging from about 0.1 in. toabout 0.2 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.3 in., about 0.1 in. to about0.4 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.75in., about 0.1 in. to about 1 in., about 0.1 in. to about 1.5 in., about0.1 in. to about 3 in., about 0.1 in. to about 5 in., about 0.2 in. toabout 0.3 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.2 in. to about0.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.2 in. to about 1 in.,about 0.2 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 3 in., about 0.2in. to about 5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.3 in. toabout 0.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.3 in. to about 1in., about 0.3 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 3 in., about0.3 in. to about 5 in., about 0.4 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.4 in. toabout 0.75 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1.5in., about 0.4 in. to about 3 in., about 0.4 in. to about 5 in., about0.5 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.5 in. to about 1 in., about 0.5 in.to about 1.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 3 in., about 0.5 in. to about 5in., about 0.75 in. to about 1 in., about 0.75 in. to about 1.5 in.,about 0.75 in. to about 3 in., about 0.75 in. to about 5 in., about 1in. to about 1.5 in., about 1 in. to about 3 in., about 1 in. to about 5in., about 1.5 in. to about 3 in., about 1.5 in. to about 5 in., orabout 3 in. to about 5 in. In some embodiments, the thermoelectriccooling and vibration area 214 has a width w2 ranging from about 0.1in., about 0.2 in., about 0.3 in., about 0.4 in., about 0.5 in., about0.75 in., about 1 in., about 1.5 in., about 3 in., or about 5 in.

In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214has a length 12 ranging from about 0.1 in. to about 5 in. or more. Insome embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 hasa length l2 ranging from at least about 0.1 in. In some embodiments, thethermoelectric cooling and vibration area 214 has a length l2 rangingfrom at most about 5 in. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric coolingand vibration area 214 has a length l2 ranging from about 0.1 in. toabout 0.2 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.3 in., about 0.1 in. to about0.4 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.1 in. to about 0.75in., about 0.1 in. to about 1 in., about 0.1 in. to about 1.5 in., about0.1 in. to about 3 in., about 0.1 in. to about 5 in., about 0.2 in. toabout 0.3 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.2 in. to about0.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.2 in. to about 1 in.,about 0.2 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.2 in. to about 3 in., about 0.2in. to about 5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.4 in., about 0.3 in. toabout 0.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.3 in. to about 1in., about 0.3 in. to about 1.5 in., about 0.3 in. to about 3 in., about0.3 in. to about 5 in., about 0.4 in. to about 0.5 in., about 0.4 in. toabout 0.75 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1 in., about 0.4 in. to about 1.5in., about 0.4 in. to about 3 in., about 0.4 in. to about 5 in., about0.5 in. to about 0.75 in., about 0.5 in. to about 1 in., about 0.5 in.to about 1.5 in., about 0.5 in. to about 3 in., about 0.5 in. to about 5in., about 0.75 in. to about 1 in., about 0.75 in. to about 1.5 in.,about 0.75 in. to about 3 in., about 0.75 in. to about 5 in., about 1in. to about 1.5 in., about 1 in. to about 3 in., about 1 in. to about 5in., about 1.5 in. to about 3 in., about 1.5 in. to about 5 in., orabout 3 in. to about 5 in. In some embodiments, the thermoelectriccooling and vibration area 214 has a length l2 ranging from about 0.1in., about 0.2 in., about 0.3 in., about 0.4 in., about 0.5 in., about0.75 in., about 1 in., about 1.5 in., about 3 in., or about 5 in.

In some embodiments, the cartridge 234 comprises a proximal portion 234b, with respect to the user when operating the insertion device. In someembodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b comprises afirst attachment point 220 a, a second attachment point 220 b, and athird attachment point 220 c. In some embodiments, the proximal portionof the cartridge 234 b is reversibly attached to the insertion device.In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b ispermanently attached to the insertion device. In some embodiments, theproximal portion of the cartridge 234 b is attached to the insertiondevice 200 via the first attachment point 220 a, the second attachmentpoint 220 b, and the third attachment point 220 c. In some embodiments,the attachment point is a tab that inserts into an opening of thehousing. In some embodiments, the attachment point is a snap-on notch.In some embodiments, the user inserts the proximal portion of thecartridge 234 b into the into the snap-on notch by pushing the proximalportion of the cartridge 234 b into the snap-on notch, with a lightforce so that the body of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 bovercomes the projections of the snap-on notch. In some embodiments, theuser releases the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b, by pulling onits proximal end, with a light force so that the body of the proximalportion of the cartridge 234 b passes the projections of the snap-onnotch. In some embodiments, the attachment point is a magnet. In someembodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b comprises amagnet. In some embodiments, the magnet of the proximal portion of thecartridge 234 b and the magnet of the attachment point engage togethermagnetically (e.g., via a magnetic attraction). In some embodiments, theattachment point is a prong that inserts into an opening of the housing.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b isreversibly attached to the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. Insome embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b comprisesa collar 248. In some embodiments, the collar 248 connects the proximalportion of the cartridge 234 b and the distal portion of the cartridge234 a. In some embodiments, the collar 248 comprises one or more tabsthat insert into an opening in the proximal portion of the cartridge 234a. In some embodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 acomprises one or more snap-on notches. In some embodiments, the userinserts the collar 248 into the into the snap-on notch by pushing theproximal portion of the cartridge 234 b into the snap-on notch, with alight force so that the collar 248 overcomes the projections of thesnap-on notch. In some embodiments, the user releases the proximalportion of the cartridge 234 b, by pulling on its proximal end, with alight force so that the collar 248 passes the projections of the snap-onnotch. In some embodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 acomprises a magnet located at its base. In some embodiments, the collar248 comprises a magnet. In some embodiments, the collar 248 ismagnetized. In some embodiments, the magnet of the distal portion of thecartridge 234 a and the magnet of the collar 248 engage togethermagnetically (e.g., via a magnetic attraction). In some embodiments, thecollar 248 comprises one or more prongs that insert into an opening ofthe distal portion of the cartridge 234 a.

In some embodiments, the collar 248 is a flexible collar. In someembodiments, the collar 248 is composed of an elastic, pliant, supple,or yielding material. In some embodiments, the collar 248 is composed ofa flexible material. In some embodiments, the flexible material ispolymeric material. In some embodiments, the flexible material is anelastomer. In some embodiments, the flexible material is rubber. In someembodiments, the flexible material is silicone. Non-limiting examples ofthe flexible material include polyurethanes, urethanes, silicone resins,foam rubber, polysiloxane, saturated rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers,elastolefin, and unsaturated rubbers. In some embodiments, the collar248 is in a compressed state. In some embodiments, the collar 248 is inan extended state (i.e., the length of the collar 248 in the extendedstate is greater than the length of the collar 248 in the compressedstate). In some embodiments, the user controls the length of the collar248 by pushing and/or pulling on the proximal portion of the cartridge234 b with a light force.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 bcomprises a catheter controlling needle slot 222. In some embodiments,the catheter-controlling slot 222 is an example of a female control slotthat controls the advancement and/or retraction of a catheter over theneedle in a proximal and/or a distal direction. In some embodiments, theinsertion device comprises a corresponding catheter-controlling maleconnector (not shown in FIGS. 1-12) that is configured to insert intothe catheter-controlling slot 222 once the cartridge 234 is connected tothe insertion device. In some embodiments, the insertion devicecomprises an actuator that detects the location of thecatheter-controlling slot 222 and/or its correspondingcatheter-controlling male connector. In some embodiments, the insertiondevice comprises an actuator that advances the catheter-controlling maleconnector and subsequently advances the female catheter-controlling slot222 to a proximal and/or a distal location, in a linear motion. In someembodiments, the cartridge 234 comprises a flexible portion of materialin the proximal and distal location of the catheter-controlling slot 222that has a spring-like action. In some embodiments, this flexibleportion of material resists movement of the catheter-controlling slot222. In some embodiments, when the catheter-controlling slot 222 and itscorresponding catheter-controlling slot 222 are disconnected, theflexible portions of material, in the proximal and distal locations ofthe catheter-controlling slot 222, exert a force on thecatheter-controlling slot 222 such that it retracts and returns to itsinitial position.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 bcomprises a needle-controlling slot 224. In some embodiments, theneedle-controlling slot 224 is an example of a female control slot thatcontrols the advancement and/or retraction of a needle in a proximaland/or a distal direction. In some embodiments, the insertion devicecomprises a corresponding needle-controlling male connector (not shownin FIGS. 1-12) that is configured to insert into the needle-controllingslot 224 once the cartridge 234 is connected to the insertion device. Insome embodiments, the insertion device comprises an actuator thatdetects the location of the needle-controlling slot 224 and/or itscorresponding needle-controlling male connector. In some embodiments,the insertion device comprises an actuator that advances theneedle-controlling male connector and subsequently advances the femaleneedle-controlling slot 224 to a proximal and/or a distal location, in alinear motion.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 bcomprises a guidewire-controlling slot 232. In some embodiments, theguidewire-controlling needle slot 232 is an example of a female controlslot that controls the advancement and/or retraction of a guidewire in aproximal and/or a distal direction. In some embodiments, theguidewire-controlling needle slot 232 is hexagonal in shape. In someembodiments, the guidewire-controlling needle slot 232 is connected to aguidewire-containing spindle (not shown in FIGS. 1-12). In someembodiments, the guidewire rests within the insertion device and in theguidewire-containing spindle. In some embodiments, theguidewire-containing spindle and the distal end of the guidewire restinside the needle. In some embodiments, the guidewire is held in itsresting position by a spiral torsion spring (not shown in FIGS. 1-12).In some embodiments, the guidewire-controlling needle slot 232 movesrotationally. In some embodiments, the guidewire-controlling needle slot232 acts against or with the force of the spiral torsion spring andadvances or retracts the guidewire within the needle. In someembodiments, the guidewire is advanced out of the distal end of theneedle such that it is advanced flexibly down the target tissue (e.g., alumen of a target blood vessel) after the needle has already beeninserted into the target tissue (e.g., a target blood vessel). In someembodiments, once the distal end of the guidewire is advanced into thetarget tissue (e.g., the lumen of the target blood vessel), the catheteris advanced forward over the needle and over the guidewire into thetarget tissue (e.g., the lumen of the blood vessel). In someembodiments, the introduction of a needle, a catheter, and/or aguidewire using the devices, methods, and systems described herein isconsistent with the Seldinger technique. The Seldinger technique is amedical procedure used to obtain safe access to blood vessels and/orhollow organs. In some embodiments, the devices, methods, and systemsdescribed herein improve the success of insertion of a needle, acatheter, and/or a guidewire into the lumen of a target tissue (e.g., ablood vessel and/or a hollow organ). In some embodiments, the devices,methods, and systems described herein decrease the risk of insertion ofa needle, a catheter, and/or a guidewire into a false lumen of a targettissue (e.g., a blood vessel and/or a hollow organ).

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a correspondingguidewire-controlling male connector (not shown in FIGS. 1-12) that isconfigured to insert into the guidewire-controlling slot 232 once thecartridge 234 is connected to the insertion device. In some embodiments,the guidewire-controlling male connector is hexagonal in shape. In someembodiments, the insertion device comprises an actuator that detects thelocation of the guidewire-controlling slot 232 and/or its correspondingguidewire-controlling male connector. In some embodiments, the insertiondevice comprises an actuator that advances the guidewire-controllingmale connector and subsequently advances the femaleguidewire-controlling slot 232 to a proximal and/or a distal location,in a linear motion. In some embodiments, the actuator is a rotationalactuator.

In some embodiments, the catheter-controlling slot 222 is located on alateral face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b, as shown inFIG. 6. In some embodiments, the catheter-controlling slot 222 islocated on a frontal face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234b. In some embodiments, the catheter-controlling slot 222 is located ona rear face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b.

In some embodiments, the needle-controlling slot 224 is located on alateral face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b, as shown inFIG. 6. In some embodiments, the needle-controlling slot 224 is locatedon a frontal face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b. Insome embodiments, the needle-controlling slot 224 is located on a rearface of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b.

In some embodiments, the guidewire-controlling slot 232 is located on alateral face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b, as shown inFIG. 6. In some embodiments, the guidewire-controlling slot 232 islocated on a frontal face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234b. In some embodiments, the guidewire-controlling slot 232 is located ona rear face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b.

In some embodiments, the catheter-controlling slot 222 is adjacent tothe needle-controlling slot 224 and/or to the guidewire-controlling slot232. In some embodiments, the needle-controlling slot 224 is adjacent tothe catheter-controlling slot 222 and/or to the guidewire-controllingslot 232. In some embodiments, the guidewire-controlling slot 232 isadjacent to the needle-controlling slot 224 and/or to thecatheter-controlling slot 222.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective representation of an embodiment of thecartridge 234 of the insertion device. In some embodiments, the proximalportion of the cartridge 234 b comprises a cartridge slit 250. In someembodiments, the cartridge slit 250 is an opening configured to receivethe catheter-controlling slot 222 and the needle-controlling slot 224.In some embodiments, the cartridge slit 250 is a track configured toguide the catheter-controlling slot 222 and the needle-controlling slot224. In some embodiments, the cartridge slit 250 comprises a flexiblematerial. In some embodiments, the cartridge slit 250 is a linear slotor opening located on a lateral side of the proximal portion of thecartridge 234 b, as shown in FIG. 7. In some embodiments, the cartridgeslit 250 allows for a linear movement of the catheter-controlling slot222 and the needle-controlling slot 224. In some embodiments, thecartridge slit 250 allows proximal and distal movement of thecatheter-controlling slot 222 and the needle-controlling slot 224. Insome embodiments, the flexible material located in the cartridge slit250 provides a spring-type force that acts to keep thecatheter-controlling slot 222 and the needle-controlling slot 224 intheir resting positions. In some embodiments, the flexible materiallocated in the cartridge slit 250 pushes the catheter-controlling slot222 and the needle-controlling slot 224 to their resting positions whenthe cartridge 234 is disconnected from the insertion device 200.

FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of the cartridge 234of the insertion device. In some embodiments, the cartridge 234comprises a first control arm 218 a and a second control arm 218 b. Insome embodiments, the first control arm 218 a and a second control arm218 b comprise at least one ball joint. In some embodiments, the balljoint comprises a bearing stud and a socket (not shown in FIG. 8)enclosed in a casing. In some embodiments, the first control arm 218 aand a second control arm 218 b control the movement and/or angle of theproximal portion of the cartridge 234 b. In some embodiments, the firstcontrol arm 218 a and a second control arm 218 b are operativelyconnected to an actuator of the insertion device.

In some embodiments, the first control arm 218 a comprises a proximalball joint 219 b and a distal ball joint 219 a. In some embodiments, theproximal ball joint 219 b of the first control arm 218 a is attached toa lateral face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b, as shownin FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the distal ball joint 219 a of the firstcontrol arm 218 a connects to a first collar spring 216 a. In someembodiments, the first collar spring 216 a is located at the base of thedistal portion of the cartridge 234 a and adjacent to the proximalportion of the cartridge 234 b. In some embodiments, the first collarspring 216 a is enclosed in a casing.

In some embodiments, the second control arm 218 b comprises a proximalball joint 221 b and a distal ball joint 221 a. In some embodiments, theproximal ball joint 221 b of the second control arm 218 b is attached toa lateral face of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b that isopposite to the lateral side comprising the first ball joint 218 a, asshown in FIG. 8. For example, in some embodiments, the first control arm218 a is located on the right side of the proximal portion of thecartridge 234 b and the second control arm 218 b is located on the leftside of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b, as shown in FIG. 8.In some embodiments, the distal ball joint 221 a of the second controlarm 218 b connects to a second collar spring 216 b. In some embodiments,the second collar spring 216 b is located at the base of the distalportion of the cartridge 234 a and adjacent to the proximal portion ofthe cartridge 234 b. In some embodiments, the second collar spring 216 bis enclosed in a casing.

In some embodiments, the first control arm 218 a and the second controlarm 218 b allow for simultaneous free rotation in two planes whilepreventing translation in any direction. In some embodiments, the firstcontrol arm 218 a and the second control arm 218 b allow for a degree ofrotation in movement of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b withrespect to the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 bcomprises a first arm 230 a and a second arm 230 b, as shown in FIG. 8.In some embodiments, the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a comprisesa first notch 231 a and a second notch 231 b, as shown in FIG. 8. Insome embodiments, the first notch 213 a is configured to receive thefirst arm 230 a. In some embodiments, the second notch 213 b isconfigured to receive the second arm 230 b. In some embodiments, thefirst arm 230 a and the second arm 230 b are flexible. In someembodiments, the first arm 230 a and the second arm 230 b are configuredto bend. In some embodiments, the user inserts the proximal portion ofthe cartridge 234 b into the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a bypushing the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b with a light forceso that the first arm 230 a and the second arm 230 b overcome theprojections of the first notch 231 a and the second notch 231 b. In someembodiments, the user releases the proximal portion of the cartridge 234b, by pulling on its proximal end, with a light force so that the firstarm 230 a and the second arm 230 b pass the projections of the firstnotch 231 a and the second notch 231 b.

In some embodiments, the cartridge 234 comprises one or more suctionvalves. In some embodiments, the cartridge 234 comprises a first suctionvalve 208 a and a second suction valve 208 b, as shown in FIG. 8. Insome embodiments, the first suction valve 208 a and a suction valve 208b are one-way valves. In some embodiments, the suction valve iscontrolled manually. In some embodiments, manual control of the vacuumaction of the cartridge is controlled by the user.

In some embodiments, the cartridge 234 comprises a vacuum button or avacuum bulb (not shown in FIGS. 1-12). In some embodiments, the surfaceof the vacuum button or the vacuum bulb is a pliable membrane. In someembodiments, the pliable membrane is composed of a shape-memory polymer.In some embodiments, the user activates the vacuum button and/or thevacuum bulb to activate the suction. In some embodiments, the vacuumbutton is a flexible, dome-shaped button. In some embodiments, thevacuum bulb is a flexible bulb. In some embodiments, the user depressesthe vacuum button or the vacuum bulb to initiate suction. In someembodiments, once depressed, the area under the vacuum button isdecreased thereby displacing the air under its surface (e.g., amembrane), which pushes that air through the first suction valve 208 ato outside of the outer edge of the cartridge 234. In some embodiments,once the pressure exerted by the user onto the surface of the vacuumbutton and/or vacuum bulb is the released, the vacuum button and/orvacuum bulb returns to its original shape, creates an area of lowpressure under the vacuum button and/or vacuum bulb, and consequentlydraws air through the second suction valve 208 b from the suction areaunder the cartridge, between the cartridge and the surface of the skinof the patient.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the cartridge comprises a manuallycontrolled centrifugal pump. In some embodiments, the centrifugal pumpcomprises an impeller. In some embodiments, the user mechanicallyactivates the impeller by depressing a button. In some embodiments, thedepression of the button causes a rotation of the impeller to start. Insome embodiments, the rotation of the impeller pushes air out of thefirst suction valve 208 a to outside of the cartridge, thereby creatingan area of low pressure in an impeller chamber. In some embodiments, thelow pressure draws air through the second suction valve 208 b from thesuction area under the cartridge, between the cartridge and the surfaceof the skin of the patient.

Alternatively, in yet another embodiment, the vacuum button and/or thevacuum bulb is automatically activated by the insertion device. In someembodiments, an actuator of the insertion device causes the depressionof the vacuum button and/or the vacuum bulb on the cartridge.

Alternatively, in other cases, the vacuum between the surface of theskin and the cartridge is created by a vacuum pump located within thehousing of the insertion device.

In some embodiments, the first suction valve 208 a and a suction valve208 b are operatively connected to a vacuum source (not shown in FIG.8). In some embodiments, the first suction valve 208 a and the secondsuction valve 208 b are in fluid communication with a vacuum source (notshown in FIG. 8). In some embodiments, the first suction valve 208 a andthe second suction valve 208 b are controlled automatically by theinsertion device.

In some embodiments, the first suction valve 208 a and the secondsuction valve 208 b are located at the distal end of the distal portionof the cartridge 234 a, as shown in FIG. 8. Alternatively, in someembodiments, the first suction valve 208 a and the second suction valve208 b are located at the proximal end of the distal portion of thecartridge 234 a. In other cases, the first suction valve 208 a and thesecond suction valve 208 b are located at the lateral ends of the distalportion of the cartridge 234 a.

In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 bcomprises a first infrared sensor 240 a, a second infrared sensor 240 b,and a third infrared sensor 240 c, as shown in FIG. 8. In someembodiments, the first infrared sensor 240 a is located adjacent to thedistal ball joint 221 a and the second collar spring 216 b. In someembodiments, the second infrared sensor 240 b is located adjacent to thedistal ball joint 219 a and the first collar spring 216 a. In someembodiments, the third infrared sensor 240 c is located in between thefirst suction valve 208 a and the second suction valve 208 b.

In some embodiments, the infrared sensors are positioned elsewhere inthe insertion device. In some embodiments, the infrared sensors arepositioned elsewhere in the cartridge. For example, in some embodiments,the infrared sensor is positioned in the distal portion of the cartridge234 a. In alternative embodiments, the first infrared sensor 240 a, thesecond infrared sensor 240 b, and the third infrared sensor 240 c arelight projectors. For example, in some embodiments, the light projectorsproject light in the infrared wavelength spectrum. In some embodiments,the light projectors project light in the visible wavelength spectrum.In some embodiments, the light projectors project light with awavelength ranging from about at least 400 nm to about 800 nm or more.In some embodiments, the light projectors project a laser. In someembodiments, the light projectors project light that is beyond the outeredges of the cartridge 234. In some embodiments, the first infraredsensor 240 a, the second infrared sensor 240 b, and the third infraredsensor 240 c detect light that is beyond the outer edges of thecartridge 234.

In some embodiments, the light projectors project a light in the visiblespectrum onto the surface of the skin of the patient while the cartridgeand/or the insertion device are separated from (e.g., not in contactwith) the surface of the skin. In some embodiments, the light projectorsproject a light in the visible spectrum onto the surface of the skin ofthe patient once the cartridge is connected to the insertion device. Insome embodiments, the user activates the light projectors and projectsthe light onto the surface of the skin of the patient in order toidentify where the target blood vessel (e.g., a vein) is located. Insome embodiments, a visible light image is displayed on the displayscreen. In some embodiments, the visible light image comprises anapproximate location of a needle insertion point on the surface of theskin (e.g., an insertion indicator marking) and/or a linear needleinsertion line (e.g., an indicator line).

In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 bcomprises an aperture 226, as shown in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, theneedle 168 exits the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b through theaperture 226. In some embodiments, the needle is connected to a catheter170.

FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of the cartridge 234of the insertion device comprising the collar 248 in an extendedposition.

In some embodiments, the collar 248 is a flexible connection portionbetween the area of the cartridge under the sensor area of the deviceand the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b that contains theneedle, catheter, and/or other insertion components. In someembodiments, the collar 248 has a lock (not shown in FIGS. 1-12) thatprevents the movement of the proximal portion of the cartridge 234 brelative to the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In someembodiments, the lock is automatically locked prior to connecting thecartridge 234 to the insertion device 200. In some embodiments, the lockis automatically unlocked after connecting the cartridge 234 to theinsertion device 200. In some embodiments, the lock is manuallycontrolled (i.e., locked and unlocked) by the user at any point in time(e.g., before or after connecting the cartridge 234 to the insertiondevice 200). In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the cartridge234 b is sterile prior to use. In some embodiments, unlocking the lockof the collar 248, directly or indirectly opens the contents of thesterile proximal portion of the cartridge 234 b to the environment. Forexample, in some embodiments, unlocking the lock of the collar 248exposes the forward line of insertion for a needle and/or cannula. Insome embodiments, collar 248 automatically assumes a locked and fixedposition between the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a and theproximal portion of the cartridge 234 b, once the cartridge 234 isremoved from the insertion device 200.

FIG. 10 illustrates a partial section view of an embodiment of theinsertion device showing the actuator mechanisms. In some embodiments,the insertion device comprises an ultrasound probe actuator 252. In someembodiments, the ultrasound probe actuator 252 controls the position ofthe ultrasound probe. In some embodiments, the ultrasound probe actuator252 controls the angle of the ultrasound probe. In some embodiments, theultrasound probe (i.e., the ultrasound transducer) is mobile within thebody of the insertion device. In some embodiments, the ultrasound probechanges locations within the insertion device, thereby changing theposition of the ultrasound plane. In some embodiments, the ultrasoundprobe actuator 252 controls the location of the ultrasound transducer.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a first control armactuator 254. In some embodiments, the first control arm actuator 254 isoperatively connected to the first control arm 218 a and the secondcontrol arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the first control arm actuator254 controls the longitudinal position of the first control arm 218 aand the second control arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the first controlarm actuator 254 controls the distal and proximal position of the firstcontrol arm 218 a and the second control arm 218 b. In some embodiments,the first control arm actuator 254 tracks the longitudinal position ofthe first control arm 218 a and the second control arm 218 b. In someembodiments, the first control arm actuator 254 sends the trackedlongitudinal positions to the computing device of the insertion device.In some embodiments, the computing device uses these trackedlongitudinal positions to calculate the position of components such as,but not limited to the first control arm 218 a, the second control arm218 b, the cartridge 234, and the needle 168.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a second control armactuator 256. In some embodiments, the second control arm actuator 256is operatively connected to the first control arm 218 a and the secondcontrol arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the second control arm actuator256 controls the horizontal position of the first control arm 218 a andthe second control arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the first control armactuator 254 controls the lateral position of the first control arm 218a and the second control arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the secondcontrol arm actuator 256 tracks the horizontal position of the firstcontrol arm 218 a and the second control arm 218 b. In some embodiments,the second control arm actuator 256 sends the tracked horizontalpositions to the computing device of the insertion device. In someembodiments, the computing device uses these tracked horizontalpositions to calculate the position of components such as, but notlimited to the first control arm 218 a, the second control arm 218 b,the cartridge 234, and the needle 168.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a first rotaryactuator 258. In some embodiments, the first rotary actuator 258 isoperatively connected to the first control arm 218 a and the secondcontrol arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the first rotary actuator 258controls the vertical angle of the first control arm 218 a and thesecond control arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the vertical angle is theangle defined as the vertical angle between the first control arm 218 aand the main body of the insertion device and/or between the secondcontrol arm 218 b and the main body of the insertion device. In someembodiments, the first rotary actuator 258 tracks the vertical angle ofthe first control arm 218 a and the second control arm 218 b. In someembodiments, the first rotary actuator 256 sends the tracked verticalangles to the computing device of the insertion device. In someembodiments, the computing device uses these tracked vertical angles tocalculate the position of components such as, but not limited to thefirst control arm 218 a, the second control arm 218 b, the cartridge234, and the needle 168.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a second rotaryactuator 260. In some embodiments, the second rotary actuator 260 isoperatively connected to the first control arm 218 a and the secondcontrol arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the second rotary actuator 260controls the horizontal angle of the first control arm 218 a and thesecond control arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the second rotaryactuator 260 tracks the horizontal angle of the first control arm 218 aand the second control arm 218 b. In some embodiments, the second rotaryactuator 260 sends the tracked horizontal angles to the computing deviceof the insertion device. In some embodiments, the computing device usesthese tracked horizontal angles to calculate the position of componentssuch as, but not limited to the first control arm 218 a, the secondcontrol arm 218 b, the cartridge 234, and the needle 168.

FIG. 11A shows a top view of the skin attachment cup 262 (i.e., FIG. 11Ashows the anterior side of the skin attachment cup 262). FIG. 11B showsan isometric view of the skin attachment cup 262. FIG. 11C shows a frontview of the skin attachment cup 262. In some embodiments, the insertiondevice 200 comprises a skin attachment cup 262. In some embodiments, theskin attachment cup 262 rapidly stabilizes and/or secures a medicalinstrument (e.g., a needle, a catheter, a cannula, and/or a guidewire)to the patient. In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 locksthe needle, cannula, and/or guidewire in place on the surface of theskin of the patient. In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 isnot used in combination with the insertion device 200 and/or thecartridge 234. In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 is usedin combination with the insertion device 200 and/or the cartridge 234.In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 stays in place afterremoving the cartridge 234 from the surface of the skin of the patient.

In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 comprises an adhesivearea (not shown in FIGS. 11A-C) that reversibly binds to the skin. Insome embodiments, the adhesive area is located on the posterior side ofthe skin attachment cup 262. In some embodiments, the adhesive areacomprises an adhesive tape and a release liner. In some embodiments, theuser removes the release liner in order to expose the adhesive tapeprior to adhering the adhesive area onto the surface of the skin of thepatient. In some embodiments, the posterior surface of the skinattachment cup 262 (not shown in FIGS. 11A-C) comprises a surface with arough texture.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262comprises one or more suction cups. In some embodiments, the userpresses the skin attachment cup 262 onto the surface of the skin of thepatient, thereby extruding air out of the suction cups and creating avacuum. In some embodiments, the vacuum created causes the suction cupsto cling to the surface of the skin of the patient immediately. In someembodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 comprises a mechanicalconnection to the insertion device 200. In some embodiments, the skinattachment cup 262 comprises a reversible, mechanical connection to amedical instrument (e.g., a needle, a catheter, a cannula, and/or aguidewire). In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 is removedby the user from the medical instrument and/or the surface of the skin.In some embodiments, the user replaces the skin attachment cup 262 witha different dressing.

In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 comprises a cylinder274. In some embodiments, the cylinder 274 extends upwardly (i.e., alongthe z-axis) from the top surface of the skin attachment cup 262. In someembodiments, the cylinder comprises an opening 270 located at distal endof the cylinder, with respect to the top surface of the skin attachmentcup 262 (i.e., the surface shown in FIG. 11B). In some embodiments, thecylinder 274 remains tightly closed if a wing spring 268 is not manuallycompressed. In some embodiments, the interior surface of the cylindercreated by 264 is coated with an adhesive. In some embodiments, theinterior surface of the cylinder created by 264 comprises a roughtexture. In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 comprises afirst grip 264 a and a second grip 264 b. In some embodiments, thecylinder 274 is formed by the reversible coupling of the first grip 264a and the second grip 264 b. In some embodiments, the first grip 264 aand the second grip 264 b are flexible. In some embodiments, the firstgrip 264 a and the second grip 264 b secure a catheter and/or aguidewire. In some embodiments, the first grip 264 a and the second grip264 b overlap. In some embodiments, the first grip 264 a and the secondgrip 264 b are attached on one side of a semicircle. In someembodiments, the open end of the semicircle remains tightly opposed toone another through friction, adherent surfaces, and an angular forcecreated by a wing spring 268, a first release tab 272 a, and a secondrelease tab 272 b. The inferior surface, which corresponds to the distalend of the wire or catheter, is coated with an adhesive and has a roughsurface, which binds to the skin of the patient after being deployed.

In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 comprises a first wingleg 266 a and a second wing leg 266 b. In some embodiments, the firstwing 266 a and the second wing 266 b are semi-rigid. In someembodiments, the first wing leg 266 a and the second wing leg 266 b areless flexible than the first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 b. Insome embodiments, the first wing leg 266 a and the second wing leg 266 bdistribute the mechanical forces produced by the wing spring 268, thefirst release tab 272 a, and the second release tab 272 b. In someembodiments, the first wing leg 266 a and the second wing leg 266 bdistribute the linear force generated by the wing spring 268 in an arcshape, thereby creating an angular force on the first grip 264 a and thesecond grip 264 b. In some embodiments, the first wing leg 266 a and thesecond wing leg 266 b create a centripetal force on the arc createdbetween the first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 b.

In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 comprises the wingspring 268. In some embodiments, the wing spring 268, when extended,pushes the first wing 266 a and the second wing 266 b outward. In someembodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 comprises a first release tab272 a and a second release tab 272 b. In some embodiments, the firstwing 266 a and the second wing 266 b are pulled apart when the usercompresses the first release tab 272 a and the second release tab 272 b.In some embodiments, the wing spring 268 exerts a linear force on thefirst release tab 272 a and the second release tab 272 b in opposingdirections, away from the center of the wing spring 268. In someembodiments, the first release tab 272 a and the second release tab 272b are attached firmly to the cylinder 274, such that the wing spring 268exerts a linear force on the first release tab 272 a and the secondrelease tab 272 b. In some embodiments, the linear force creates anangular and/or rotational force which further creates a rotational forceon the first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 b with respect to oneanother. In some embodiments, the linear force creates an angular and/orrotational force which further creates an angular and/or centripetalforce on the cylinder 274.

In some embodiments, the frictional and adherent surface of the cylinder274, which together with the centripetal force caused by the wing spring268, the first release tab 272 a, and the second release tab 272 b,holds a catheter and/or a guidewire in place with respect to the skinattachment cup 262.

In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 comprises an opening270. In some embodiments, the medical instrument (e.g., a needle, acatheter, a cannula, and/or a guidewire) exits and/or enters through theopening 270. In some embodiments, the user applies an inward directedforce on the first release tab 272 a and the second release tab 272 b,thereby compressing the wing spring 268. In some embodiments,compression of the wing spring 268 produces an outward angular force onthe first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 b. In some embodiments, theoutward angular force on the first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 bcauses the adherent connection between the first grip 264 a and thesecond grip 264 b to break. In some embodiments, the outward angularforce on the first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 b causes the firstgrip 264 a and the second grip 264 b to separate. In some embodiments,the outward angular force on the first grip 264 a and the second grip264 b causes the cylinder of 274 to open, thereby releasing the catheterand/or the guidewire. In some embodiments, the outward angular force onthe first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 b creates an outward andvertical force (i.e., along the z-axis) on the first grip 264 a and thesecond grip 264 b, thereby pulling the majority of the skin attachmentcup 262 off of the surface of the skin. In some embodiments, the outwardangular force on the first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 bdisconnects the first grip 264 a and the second grip 264 b. In someembodiments, of the rest of the skin attachment cup 262 is easily pulledoff of the remaining surface of the skin by pulling of the skinattachment cup 262 by the user.

In some embodiments, before use, the skin attachment cup 262 adheres tothe catheter and/or guidewire while the catheter sits in its initialresting position. In some embodiments, the skin attachment cup 262 isattached to the surface of the skin once the catheter and/or guidewireare advanced to its full insertion position. In some embodiments, theskin attachment cup 262 holds the catheter and/or guidewire to thesurface of the skin with enough force to overcome a withdrawing of theneedle through the interior surface of the catheter lumen.

Housing

In some embodiments, the housing 122 comprises an ultrasound transducer,a cartridge receiver, a needle holder, an infrared sensor, and/or acomputing device. In some embodiments, the housing 122 encloses theultrasound transducer, the cartridge receiver, the needle holder, theinfrared sensor, and/or a computing device. In some embodiments, thehousing 122 comprises the outer layer of the device, providingsubstantive and structural protection to the inner components. In someembodiments, the housing 122 is composed of a plastic material, forexample. In some embodiments, the housing 122 is composed of polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene, polypropylene, or polystyrene. In someembodiments, the housing 122 is a plastic or an elastomer materialincluding, but not limited to: polyethylene; polypropylene; polystyrene;polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride,polyethersulfone, polyacrylate or acrylic or polymethylmethacrylate(PMMA); polysulfone; polyetheretherketone (PEEK); thermoplasticelastomers or thermoplastic urethanes; or poly-p-xylylene or parylene.In some embodiments, the housing 122 is a metal such as, but not limitedto, aluminum or stainless steel.

Ultrasound Transducer

The insertion device can comprise one or more imaging devices. Theimaging device can be an ultrasound transducer. In some embodiments, theultrasound transducer 213 is configured to emit and receive anultrasound wave. In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducer (i.e.,the ultrasound probe) is an ultrasound transmitter. In some embodiments,the ultrasound transmitter converts electrical signals into ultrasoundwaves. In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducer is an ultrasoundreceiver. In some embodiments, the ultrasound receiver convertsultrasound waves into electrical signals. In some embodiments, theultrasound transducer is an ultrasound transceiver. In some embodiments,the ultrasound transceiver converts both electrical signals intoultrasound waves and ultrasound waves into electrical signals. In someembodiments, the ultrasound transducer is sized to fit within thehousing 122. In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducer is used togenerate cross-sectional images of the target tissue. In someembodiments, the ultrasound transducer comprises a non-invasive airbubble detector. In some embodiments, the non-invasive air bubbledetector identifies the presence of a break in flow of a liquid (e.g.,blood). In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducer is designed foruse with a Doppler ultrasound system. In some embodiments, theultrasound transducer is a linear array transducer. In some embodiments,the ultrasound transducer maintains a normal temperature that is safelytolerated by the surface of the skin of the individual (e.g., betweenabout 25° C. to about 36° C.). In some embodiments, the ultrasoundtransducer has a frequency range varied based on the applicableexamination. In some embodiments, for example, a frequency of 50 megaHertz (MHz) is used for vascular examination. In some embodiments, anultrasound transducer contains more than one operating frequency. Insome embodiments the ultrasound transducer comprises a piezoelectriccrystal, which generates and receives ultrasound waves. In someembodiments, the arrangement of the piezoelectric crystal is linear,curved (or convex), or phased. In some embodiments, the ultrasoundtransducer is a linear ultrasound transducer. In some embodiments, theultrasound transducer is a curved or convex ultrasound transducer. Insome embodiments, the ultrasound transducer is a phased array ultrasoundtransducer. In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducer is a pencilultrasound transducer. In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducer isan endocavity transducer. In some embodiments, the ultrasound transduceris a transesophageal probe. In some embodiments, the dimensions of thedevice vary. In some embodiments, the device is suitable for handhelduse.

In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducer has a frequency of about2 MHz to about 12 MHz. In some embodiments, the ultrasound transducerhas a frequency of at least about 2 MHz. In some embodiments, theultrasound transducer has a frequency of at most about 12 MHz. In someembodiments, the ultrasound transducer has a frequency of about 2 MHz toabout 3 MHz, about 2 MHz to about 4 MHz, about 2 MHz to about 5 MHz,about 2 MHz to about 6 MHz, about 2 MHz to about 7 MHz, about 2 MHz toabout 8 MHz, about 2 MHz to about 9 MHz, about 2 MHz to about 10 MHz,about 2 MHz to about 11 MHz, about 2 MHz to about 12 MHz, about 3 MHz toabout 4 MHz, about 3 MHz to about 5 MHz, about 3 MHz to about 6 MHz,about 3 MHz to about 7 MHz, about 3 MHz to about 8 MHz, about 3 MHz toabout 9 MHz, about 3 MHz to about 10 MHz, about 3 MHz to about 11 MHz,about 3 MHz to about 12 MHz, about 4 MHz to about 5 MHz, about 4 MHz toabout 6 MHz, about 4 MHz to about 7 MHz, about 4 MHz to about 8 MHz,about 4 MHz to about 9 MHz, about 4 MHz to about 10 MHz, about 4 MHz toabout 11 MHz, about 4 MHz to about 12 MHz, about 5 MHz to about 6 MHz,about 5 MHz to about 7 MHz, about 5 MHz to about 8 MHz, about 5 MHz toabout 9 MHz, about 5 MHz to about 10 MHz, about 5 MHz to about 11 MHz,about 5 MHz to about 12 MHz, about 6 MHz to about 7 MHz, about 6 MHz toabout 8 MHz, about 6 MHz to about 9 MHz, about 6 MHz to about 10 MHz,about 6 MHz to about 11 MHz, about 6 MHz to about 12 MHz, about 7 MHz toabout 8 MHz, about 7 MHz to about 9 MHz, about 7 MHz to about 10 MHz,about 7 MHz to about 11 MHz, about 7 MHz to about 12 MHz, about 8 MHz toabout 9 MHz, about 8 MHz to about 10 MHz, about 8 MHz to about 11 MHz,about 8 MHz to about 12 MHz, about 9 MHz to about 10 MHz, about 9 MHz toabout 11 MHz, about 9 MHz to about 12 MHz, about 10 MHz to about 11 MHz,about 10 MHz to about 12 MHz, or about 11 MHz to about 12 MHz. In someembodiments, the ultrasound transducer has a frequency of about 2 MHz,about 3 MHz, about 4 MHz, about 5 MHz, about 6 MHz, about 7 MHz, about 8MHz, about 9 MHz, about 9 MHz, about 10 MHz, about 11 MHz, or about 12MHz.

Infrared Sensor

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises an infrared sensor.In some embodiments, the infrared sensor is configured to emit andreceive an infrared radiation. In some embodiments, the infrared sensorcomprises an infrared radiation source. In some embodiments, theinfrared radiation source is a light emitting diode (LED) or an organiclight emitting diode (OLED). In some embodiments, the infrared sensorcomprises an infrared radiation detector. In some embodiments, theinfrared radiation detector is an infrared photodetector or atemperature detector.

In some embodiments, the infrared sensor is configured to emit and/orreceive an infrared wave. In some embodiments, the infrared sensor isconfigured to emit, receive, and/or detect an infrared radiation in thenear infrared region, in the mid infrared region, or in the far infraredregion. In some embodiments, the infrared wave ranges between about 0.70microns (μm) to about 1000 μm. In some embodiments, the infrared waveranges from about 0.70 μm to about 1,000 μm. In some embodiments, theinfrared wave ranges from at least about 0.70 μm. In some embodiments,the infrared wave ranges from at most about 1,000 μm. In someembodiments, the infrared wave ranges from about 0.70 μm to about 1 μm,about 0.70 μm to about 3 μm, about 0.70 μm to about 4 μm, about 0.70 μmto about 5 μm, about 0.70 μm to about 6 μm, about 0.70 μm to about 10μm, about 0.70 μm to about 50 μm, about 0.70 μm to about 100 μm, about0.70 μm to about 500 μm, about 0.70 μm to about 750 μm, about 0.70 μm toabout 1,000 μm, about 1 μm to about 3 μm, about 1 μm to about 4 μm,about 1 μm to about 5 μm, about 1 μm to about 6 μm, about 1 μm to about10 μm, about 1 μm to about 50 μm, about 1 μm to about 100 μm, about 1 μmto about 500 μm, about 1 μm to about 750 μm, about 1 μm to about 1,000μm, about 3 μm to about 4 μm, about 3 μm to about 5 μm, about 3 μm toabout 6 μm, about 3 μm to about 10 μm, about 3 μm to about 50 μm, about3 μm to about 100 μm, about 3 μm to about 500 μm, about 3 μm to about750 μm, about 3 μm to about 1,000 μm, about 4 μm to about 5 μm, about 4μm to about 6 μm, about 4 μm to about 10 μm, about 4 μm to about 50 μm,about 4 μm to about 100 μm, about 4 μm to about 500 μm, about 4 μm toabout 750 μm, about 4 μm to about 1,000 μm, about 5 μm to about 6 μm,about 5 μm to about 10 μm, about 5 μm to about 50 μm, about 5 μm toabout 100 μm, about 5 μm to about 500 μm, about 5 μm to about 750 μm,about 5 μm to about 1,000 μm, about 6 μm to about 10 μm, about 6 μm toabout 50 μm, about 6 μm to about 100 μm, about 6 μm to about 500 μm,about 6 μm to about 750 μm, about 6 μm to about 1,000 μm, about 10 μm toabout 50 μm, about 10 μm to about 100 μm, about 10 μm to about 500 μm,about 10 μm to about 750 μm, about 10 μm to about 1,000 μm, about 50 μmto about 100 μm, about 50 μm to about 500 μm, about 50 μm to about 750μm, about 50 μm to about 1,000 μm, about 100 μm to about 500 μm, about100 μm to about 750 μm, about 100 μm to about 1,000 μm, about 500 μm toabout 750 μm, about 500 μm to about 1,000 μm, or about 750 μm to about1,000 μm. In some embodiments, the infrared wave ranges from about 0.75μm, about 1 μm, about 3 μm, about 4 μm, about 5 μm, about 6 μm, about 10μm, about 50 μm, about 100 μm, about 500 μm, about 750 μm, or about1,000 μm.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises about 1 infraredsensor to about 10 infrared sensors or more. In some embodiments, theinsertion device comprises at least about 1 infrared sensor. In someembodiments, the insertion device comprises at most about 10 infraredsensors. In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises about 1infrared sensor to about 2 infrared sensors, about 1 infrared sensor toabout 3 infrared sensors, about 1 infrared sensor to about 4 infraredsensors, about 1 infrared sensor to about 5 infrared sensors, about 1infrared sensor to about 6 infrared sensors, about 1 infrared sensor toabout 7 infrared sensors, about 1 infrared sensor to about 8 infraredsensors, about 1 infrared sensor to about 9 infrared sensors, about 1infrared sensor to about 10 infrared sensors, about 2 infrared sensorsto about 3 infrared sensors, about 2 infrared sensors to about 4infrared sensors, about 2 infrared sensors to about 5 infrared sensors,about 2 infrared sensors to about 6 infrared sensors, about 2 infraredsensors to about 7 infrared sensors, about 2 infrared sensors to about 8infrared sensors, about 2 infrared sensors to about 9 infrared sensors,about 2 infrared sensors to about 10 infrared sensors, about 3 infraredsensors to about 4 infrared sensors, about 3 infrared sensors to about 5infrared sensors, about 3 infrared sensors to about 6 infrared sensors,about 3 infrared sensors to about 7 infrared sensors, about 3 infraredsensors to about 8 infrared sensors, about 3 infrared sensors to about 9infrared sensors, about 3 infrared sensors to about 10 infrared sensors,about 4 infrared sensors to about 5 infrared sensors, about 4 infraredsensors to about 6 infrared sensors, about 4 infrared sensors to about 7infrared sensors, about 4 infrared sensors to about 8 infrared sensors,about 4 infrared sensors to about 9 infrared sensors, about 4 infraredsensors to about 10 infrared sensors, about 5 infrared sensors to about6 infrared sensors, about 5 infrared sensors to about 7 infraredsensors, about 5 infrared sensors to about 8 infrared sensors, about 5infrared sensors to about 9 infrared sensors, about 5 infrared sensorsto about 10 infrared sensors, about 6 infrared sensors to about 7infrared sensors, about 6 infrared sensors to about 8 infrared sensors,about 6 infrared sensors to about 9 infrared sensors, about 6 infraredsensors to about 10 infrared sensors, about 7 infrared sensors to about8 infrared sensors, about 7 infrared sensors to about 9 infraredsensors, about 7 infrared sensors to about 10 infrared sensors, about 8infrared sensors to about 9 infrared sensors, about 8 infrared sensorsto about 10 infrared sensors, or about 9 infrared sensors to about 10infrared sensors. In some embodiments, the insertion device comprisesabout 1 infrared sensor, about 2 infrared sensors, about 3 infraredsensors, about 4 infrared sensors, about 5 infrared sensors, about 6infrared sensors, about 7 infrared sensors, about 8 infrared sensors,about 9 infrared sensors, or about 10 infrared sensors.

In some embodiments, the infrared sensor is a thermal infrared sensor.In some embodiments, the infrared sensor is a quantum infrared sensor.In some embodiments, the infrared sensor is a passive infrared sensor.In some embodiments, the infrared sensor is an infrared radiationsource. In some embodiments, the infrared radiation source is aninfrared diode (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED)). In someembodiments, the infrared diode emits a radiation with a wavelengthranging from at least about 740 nanometers (nm) to about 760 nm or more.

In some embodiments, the infrared diode emits a radiation with awavelength ranging from about 700 nm to about 900 nm. In someembodiments, the infrared diode emits a radiation with a wavelengthranging from at least about 700 nm. In some embodiments, the infrareddiode emits a radiation with a wavelength ranging from at most about 900nm. In some embodiments, the infrared diode emits a radiation with awavelength ranging from about 700 nm to about 710 nm, about 700 nm toabout 720 nm, about 700 nm to about 730 nm, about 700 nm to about 740nm, about 700 nm to about 750 nm, about 700 nm to about 760 nm, about700 nm to about 770 nm, about 700 nm to about 780 nm, about 700 nm toabout 790 nm, about 700 nm to about 800 nm, about 700 nm to about 900nm, about 710 nm to about 720 nm, about 710 nm to about 730 nm, about710 nm to about 740 nm, about 710 nm to about 750 nm, about 710 nm toabout 760 nm, about 710 nm to about 770 nm, about 710 nm to about 780nm, about 710 nm to about 790 nm, about 710 nm to about 800 nm, about710 nm to about 900 nm, about 720 nm to about 730 nm, about 720 nm toabout 740 nm, about 720 nm to about 750 nm, about 720 nm to about 760nm, about 720 nm to about 770 nm, about 720 nm to about 780 nm, about720 nm to about 790 nm, about 720 nm to about 800 nm, about 720 nm toabout 900 nm, about 730 nm to about 740 nm, about 730 nm to about 750nm, about 730 nm to about 760 nm, about 730 nm to about 770 nm, about730 nm to about 780 nm, about 730 nm to about 790 nm, about 730 nm toabout 800 nm, about 730 nm to about 900 nm, about 740 nm to about 750nm, about 740 nm to about 760 nm, about 740 nm to about 770 nm, about740 nm to about 780 nm, about 740 nm to about 790 nm, about 740 nm toabout 800 nm, about 740 nm to about 900 nm, about 750 nm to about 760nm, about 750 nm to about 770 nm, about 750 nm to about 780 nm, about750 nm to about 790 nm, about 750 nm to about 800 nm, about 750 nm toabout 900 nm, about 760 nm to about 770 nm, about 760 nm to about 780nm, about 760 nm to about 790 nm, about 760 nm to about 800 nm, about760 nm to about 900 nm, about 770 nm to about 780 nm, about 770 nm toabout 790 nm, about 770 nm to about 800 nm, about 770 nm to about 900nm, about 780 nm to about 790 nm, about 780 nm to about 800 nm, about780 nm to about 900 nm, about 790 nm to about 800 nm, about 790 nm toabout 900 nm, or about 800 nm to about 900 nm. In some embodiments, theinfrared diode emits a radiation with a wavelength ranging from about700 nm, about 710 nm, about 720 nm, about 730 nm, about 740 nm, about750 nm, about 760 nm, about 770 nm, about 780 nm, about 790 nm, about800 nm, or about 900 nm.

Alternatively, in other embodiments, the insertion device comprises adigital camera. In some embodiments, the digital camera detects aninfrared wave or signal. In some embodiments, the digital camera detectsa near-infrared wave or signal. In some embodiments, the digital camerais a near-infrared camera. In some embodiments, the digital camera is awebcam. In some embodiments, the digital camera is a smart phone cameraor a camera phone. In some embodiments, the digital camera is a computercamera. In some embodiments, the digital camera is a thermographiccamera or a thermal imaging camera. In some embodiments, the digitalcamera comprises an optical filter. In some embodiments, the opticalfilter facilitates detection of an infrared and/or a near-infraredradiation.

In some embodiments, the digital camera is used in combination with theinfrared radiation source. In some embodiments, the insertion devicecomprises the infrared radiation source. In some embodiments, theinfrared radiation source produces a radiation that is absorbed bydeoxidized hemoglobin in blood. In some embodiments, the digital cameradetects a radiation wave that is absorbed by the deoxygenated blood inblood vessels (e.g., in veins) in a target tissue. In some embodiments,the digital camera sends the detected radiation wave to the computingdevice. In some embodiments, the computing device generates an infraredimage of the blood vessels containing deoxygenated blood in the targettissue. In some embodiments, the infrared image is ed on the displayscreen of the insertion device.

In some embodiments, the digital camera detects a radiation with awavelength ranging from about 700 nm to about 900 nm. In someembodiments, the digital camera detects a radiation with a wavelengthranging from at least about 700 nm. In some embodiments, the digitalcamera detects a radiation with a wavelength ranging from at most about900 nm. In some embodiments, the digital camera detects a radiation witha wavelength ranging from about 700 nm to about 710 nm, about 700 nm toabout 720 nm, about 700 nm to about 730 nm, about 700 nm to about 740nm, about 700 nm to about 750 nm, about 700 nm to about 760 nm, about700 nm to about 770 nm, about 700 nm to about 780 nm, about 700 nm toabout 790 nm, about 700 nm to about 800 nm, about 700 nm to about 900nm, about 710 nm to about 720 nm, about 710 nm to about 730 nm, about710 nm to about 740 nm, about 710 nm to about 750 nm, about 710 nm toabout 760 nm, about 710 nm to about 770 nm, about 710 nm to about 780nm, about 710 nm to about 790 nm, about 710 nm to about 800 nm, about710 nm to about 900 nm, about 720 nm to about 730 nm, about 720 nm toabout 740 nm, about 720 nm to about 750 nm, about 720 nm to about 760nm, about 720 nm to about 770 nm, about 720 nm to about 780 nm, about720 nm to about 790 nm, about 720 nm to about 800 nm, about 720 nm toabout 900 nm, about 730 nm to about 740 nm, about 730 nm to about 750nm, about 730 nm to about 760 nm, about 730 nm to about 770 nm, about730 nm to about 780 nm, about 730 nm to about 790 nm, about 730 nm toabout 800 nm, about 730 nm to about 900 nm, about 740 nm to about 750nm, about 740 nm to about 760 nm, about 740 nm to about 770 nm, about740 nm to about 780 nm, about 740 nm to about 790 nm, about 740 nm toabout 800 nm, about 740 nm to about 900 nm, about 750 nm to about 760nm, about 750 nm to about 770 nm, about 750 nm to about 780 nm, about750 nm to about 790 nm, about 750 nm to about 800 nm, about 750 nm toabout 900 nm, about 760 nm to about 770 nm, about 760 nm to about 780nm, about 760 nm to about 790 nm, about 760 nm to about 800 nm, about760 nm to about 900 nm, about 770 nm to about 780 nm, about 770 nm toabout 790 nm, about 770 nm to about 800 nm, about 770 nm to about 900nm, about 780 nm to about 790 nm, about 780 nm to about 800 nm, about780 nm to about 900 nm, about 790 nm to about 800 nm, about 790 nm toabout 900 nm, or about 800 nm to about 900 nm. In some embodiments, thedigital camera detects a radiation with a wavelength ranging from about700 nm, about 710 nm, about 720 nm, about 730 nm, about 740 nm, about750 nm, about 760 nm, about 770 nm, about 780 nm, about 790 nm, about800 nm, or about 900 nm.

Imaging Device Stage

In some embodiments, the imaging device stage can be used to manipulatethe position of the one or more imaging devices with respect to thehousing. The one or more imaging devices can be an ultrasoundtransducer, infrared sensor, and/or digital camera. In certainembodiments, the one or more imaging devices is an ultrasoundtransducer. In some embodiments, the imaging device stage can be anultrasound stage. In some embodiments, the ultrasound stage can maintaina reference to the insertion device in any orientation. In someembodiments, the ultrasound stage can maintain a reference to the needletip. The ultrasound stage can accommodate transverse and longitudinalscans of the vein anatomy along a central axis.

FIG. 16 illustrates an ultrasound stage 330 and the actuators that canprovide translation and rotation for the ultrasound probe 320. In someembodiments, the translational mechanism is based on a linear rail 325coupled to the ultrasound holder. In other embodiments, thetranslational mechanism is based on a rack and pinion. In otherembodiments, the translational mechanism is based on a pulley system incombination with a polished rod and bushing. In some embodiments, theultrasound transducer is translationally positioned using a linearactuator. In some embodiments, the linear actuator is a stepper motorand lead screw. In other embodiments, the linear actuator is driven withpiezo electric elements. In other embodiments, the ultrasound probe ispositioned using a servo and cam mechanism.

In some embodiments, the ultrasound stage 330 contains a rotationmechanism 321 for rotating the ultrasound probe 320. In someembodiments, the ultrasound stage can sweep and/or rotate ultrasoundprobe at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130,140, 150, 160, 170, or 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the ultrasoundprobe can be rotated at least 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, 270, 300,330, or 360 degrees. In some embodiments, the rotation mechanismcomprises a stepper motor. In some embodiments, the rotation mechanismcomprises a servo motor. In some embodiments, the rotation mechanism isa linear actuator pushing offset from a predefined rotation point. Insome embodiments, the rotation mechanism comprises a cam.

The ultrasound stage can comprise a contact mechanism to provide anappropriate force on the ultrasound probe to maintain sufficient contactwith the skin in order to produce a clear and consistent image. Thecontact mechanism can apply a range of forces sufficient to produceclear images while low enough to avoid collapsing a vein being imaged.In some embodiments, the contact mechanism can be adjusted to vary thecontact force applied on different patient anatomies as patients withhigh levels of adipose tissue may require different amounts of forcethan those with normal levels of adipose tissue.

In some embodiments, the ultrasound holder 330 comprises a contactmechanism 323 to provide a downward force between the skin andultrasound probe 320. In some embodiments, the contact mechanism is aspring driven system coupled mechanically to the ultrasound probe. Insome embodiments, the contact mechanism comprises a linear actuator. Inother embodiments, the contact mechanism is a cam mechanism actuated bya servomotor or stepper motor. In other embodiments, the contactmechanism comprises an electromagnetic coil that can generate a higherdownward force with increasing current draw. In other embodiments, thecontact mechanism comprises passive magnets coupled to a linear rail. Inother embodiments, the contact mechanism applies air pressure to theultrasound probe. In other embodiments, the contact mechanism comprisesa compliant membrane. The membrane can comprise an elastomeric material.In other embodiments, the contact mechanism is any combination thereof.

The ultrasound stage can comprise an ultrasound control that allowsusers to manipulate the position of the ultrasound probe and to applythe downward contact force. The users can adjust the position andcontact force applied based on the assessment of the target anatomy anddetermination of the appropriate path/alignment of the needle advancingthrough the lumen. The ultrasound control can be adjustable based onuser input or controlled automatically through feedback from varioussensors.

In some embodiments, the user can manually adjust the ultrasound control322 to translate and/or rotate the ultrasound probe. In otherembodiments, the control can comprise electrical switches attached tothe insertion device. In other embodiments, the control can beautomatically adjusted by the insertion device. In certain embodiments,the control can be any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the amount of the downward force is manuallyadjusted by the user. In other embodiments, the amount force iselectronically adjusted by the user using a lever or switch. In otherembodiments, the amount of the force is automatically adjusted based onfeedback from the sensor unit 324. In other embodiments, the sensors arepressure transducers based on either a piezo resistive strain gauge,capacitive diaphragm, electromagnetic diaphragm, piezoelectric strain,optical fiber strain gauge, or potentiometric wiper. In otherembodiments, the sensors are any combination thereof.

The position ultrasound probe can be calibrated to a known value and/ormaintained within a defined range. This can prevent the insertion devicefrom operating beyond its available technical limits.

In some embodiments, the ultrasound holder contains ultrasound stop 326to prevent the ultrasound probe 320 from moving beyond the intendedrange of motion and the calibration range of the probe. In otherembodiments, the ultrasound stop comprises electrical limit switches. Inother embodiments, the ultrasound stop comprises optical flags. In otherembodiments, the ultrasound stop is operatively coupled to a drivemechanism. In other embodiments, the ultrasound stop is manually set bya user to limit the range of motion. In some embodiments, the ultrasoundstop is set by the manufacturer. In some embodiments, the ultrasoundstop is adjusted depending on the type of cartridge installed in theinsertion unit. In other embodiments, the ultrasound stop is anycombination thereof.

Thermoelectric Cooler

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a thermoelectriccooler. The thermoelectric cooler functions based on the Peltier effect;namely, it creates a heat flux between the junction of two differenttypes of materials. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler has afirst side and a second side which upon application of a direct current(DC) electric current, heat is transferred from the first side to thesecond side. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler decreasesthe temperature of a distal side of the thermoelectric cooler andincreases the temperature of a proximal side of the thermoelectriccooler. In some embodiments, the distal side of the thermoelectric is acooling plate having an active-cooling surface. In some embodiments, thethermoelectric cooler is mounted against the inner surface of the distalportion of the cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, the thermoelectriccooler sits adjacent to and makes thermal contact with the inner surfaceof the distal portion of the cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface of the thermoelectric cooler sits adjacent to andmakes thermal contact with the inner surface of the distal portion ofthe cartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler ismounted against the inner surface of the distal portion of the cartridge234 a. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler transfers heatfrom the surface of the skin of the patient, to an active-coolingsurface of the thermoelectric cooler. In some embodiments, this thermaltransfer occurs through the inner surface of the distal portion of thecartridge 234 a, to the cooling plate of the thermoelectric cooler, andfinally to the heating plate and heat sink of the thermoelectric cooler;thereby reducing the surface temperature of the surface of the skin(e.g., an injection area) of a patient. In some embodiments, the heattransferred to the heating plate and/or the heat sink of thethermoelectric cooler is dissipated. In some embodiments, thethermoelectric cooler is configured to cool the active-cooling surfaceof the thermoelectric cooler by conduction.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a temperature sensor(not shown in FIGS. 1-12). In some embodiments, the temperature sensoris operatively connected to the computing device of the insertiondevice. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor is operativelyconnected to the thermoelectric cooler. In some embodiments, thetemperature sensor is operatively connected to the active-coolingsurface. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor is configured todetect a temperature of the cooling plate. In some embodiments, thetemperature sensor is configured to detect a temperature of theactive-cooling surface of the thermoelectric cooler.

In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler comprises a heating platefacing away from the inner surface of the distal portion of thecartridge 234 a. In some embodiments, the heating plate is in thermalconnection with a heat sink. In some embodiments, the heat sink absorbsheat emitted by the heating plate. In some embodiments, thethermoelectric cooler comprises a fan. In some embodiments, the fan isconfigured to dissipate heat emitted by the heating plate. In someembodiments, the cooling plate and the heating plate of thethermoelectric cooler are separated by a material that does not conductheat. In some embodiments, the controller controls and/or limits thelength of time when the thermoelectric cooler is activated. In someembodiments, the computing device controls and/or limits the activationof the thermoelectric cooler. In some embodiments, the temperaturesensor provides a feedback signal to the controller. In someembodiments, the feedback signal is a temperature of the cooling plate,a temperature of the heating plate, the temperature of theactive-cooling surface, and/or the temperature of the surface of theskin of the patient. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor assiststhe computing device in controlling and/or limiting the length of timeduring which the thermoelectric cooler is activated. In someembodiments, the temperature sensor assists the computing device incontrolling and/or limiting the activation of the thermoelectric cooler.In some embodiments, the computing device limits the length of time inwhich the thermoelectric cooler is activated.

In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooler absorbs heat from asurface of the skin of a patient. In some embodiments, thethermoelectric cooler absorbs heat from a surface of the skin of apatient by direct contact between the cooled active-cooling surface andthe surface of the skin. In some embodiments, the absorption of heatfrom the surface of the skin of the patient creates an anesthetic effecton the surface of the skin and/or in underlying tissue of the patient.In some embodiments, activating the thermoelectric cooler of theinsertion device decreases the pain level that the patient feels duringa medical procedure using the insertion device (e.g., needle insertionand/or catheter insertion and/or deployment). In some embodiments,activating the thermoelectric cooler of the insertion deviceanesthetizes the surface of the skin and/or underlying tissue of thepatient during a medical procedure using the insertion device (e.g.,needle insertion and/or catheter insertion and/or deployment). In someembodiments, activating the thermoelectric cooler of the insertiondevice has a local anesthetic effect on the patient. In someembodiments, activating the thermoelectric cooler of the insertiondevice has a local anesthetic effect on an injection region of thepatient. In some embodiments, activating the thermoelectric cooler ofthe insertion device desensitizes, numbs, or deprives of sensation thesurface of the skin and/or underlying tissue of the patient during amedical procedure using the insertion device (e.g., needle insertionand/or catheter insertion and/or deployment).

In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface of the thermoelectriccooler is cooled to a temperature ranging between about at least −10 toabout 10 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature ranging between aboutat least −10 to about 5 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments,the active-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature ranging between atleast about −10 to about 0 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments,the active-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature ranging between atleast about −10 to about −5 degrees Celsius or more. In someembodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to a temperatureranging between at least about −15 to about 15 degrees Celsius or more.In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature ranging between at least about −15 to about 10 degreesCelsius or more. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface iscooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 to about 5degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surfaceis cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 to about 0degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surfaceis cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 to about−5 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the active-coolingsurface is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 toabout −10 degrees Celsius or more.

In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about −15 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about −14 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about −13 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about −12 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about −11 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about −10 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about −9 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about −8 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about −7 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about −6 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about −5 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about −4 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about −3 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about −2 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about −1 degree Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about 0 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about 1 degree Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about 2 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about 3 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about 4 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about 5 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about 6 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about 7 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about 8 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about 9 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about 10 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about 11 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about 12 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about 13 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theactive-cooling surface is cooled to a temperature of about 14 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the active-cooling surface is cooled to atemperature of about 15 degrees Celsius.

In some embodiments, the injection region of a patient is cooled bydirect contact with the active-cooling surface of the thermoelectriccooler of the insertion device. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between about at least −10 toabout 10 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between about at least −10 toabout 5 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −10 toabout 0 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −10 toabout −5 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 toabout 15 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 toabout 10 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 toabout 5 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 toabout 0 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 toabout −5 degrees Celsius or more. In some embodiments, the injectionregion is cooled to a temperature ranging between at least about −15 toabout −10 degrees Celsius or more.

In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature ofabout −15 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region iscooled to a temperature of about −14 degrees Celsius. In someembodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature of about−13 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region is cooledto a temperature of about −12 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theinjection region is cooled to a temperature of about −11 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to atemperature of about −10 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theinjection region is cooled to a temperature of about −9 degrees Celsius.In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature ofabout −8 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region iscooled to a temperature of about −7 degrees Celsius. In someembodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature of about −6degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled toa temperature of about −5 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theinjection region is cooled to a temperature of about −4 degrees Celsius.In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature ofabout −3 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region iscooled to a temperature of about −2 degrees Celsius. In someembodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature of about −1degree Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to atemperature of about 0 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theinjection region is cooled to a temperature of about 1 degree Celsius.In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature ofabout 2 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region iscooled to a temperature of about 3 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments,the injection region is cooled to a temperature of about 4 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to atemperature of about 5 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theinjection region is cooled to a temperature of about 6 degrees Celsius.In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature ofabout 7 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region iscooled to a temperature of about 8 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments,the injection region is cooled to a temperature of about 9 degreesCelsius. In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to atemperature of about 10 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, theinjection region is cooled to a temperature of about 11 degrees Celsius.In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature ofabout 12 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region iscooled to a temperature of about 13 degrees Celsius. In someembodiments, the injection region is cooled to a temperature of about 14degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the injection region is cooled toa temperature of about 15 degrees Celsius.

In some embodiments, the injection region of the patient is cooled to atemperature of about 10 degrees Celsius by direct contact between theinjection region and the active-cooling surface of the thermoelectriccooler. In some embodiments, when the injection region reaches a desiredtemperature (e.g., 10 degrees Celsius), the temperature sensor sends afeedback signal to the computing device in order to deactivate thethermoelectric cooler. In some embodiments, the feedback signal triggersa change in the color of an indicator light (not shown in FIGS. 1-12).In some embodiments, the change in color of the indicator light notifiesthe user that the injection region is at the correct temperature andappropriately anesthetized for needle insertion.

In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for at least about 1 minute to about 5 minutes ormore prior to insertion of the needle. In some embodiments, theinjection region is contacted with the active-cooling surface for atleast about 15 seconds to about 10 minutes or more prior to insertion ofthe needle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted withthe active-cooling surface for at least about 30 seconds to about 10minutes or more prior to insertion of the needle. In some embodiments,the injection region is contacted with the active-cooling surface for atleast about 45 seconds to about 10 minutes or more prior to insertion ofthe needle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted withthe active-cooling surface for at least about 1 minute to about 10minutes or more prior to insertion of the needle. In some embodiments,the injection region is contacted with the active-cooling surface for atleast about 2 minutes to about 5 minutes or more prior to insertion ofthe needle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted withthe active-cooling surface for at least about 1 minute to about 5minutes or more prior to insertion of the needle. In some embodiments,the injection region is contacted with the active-cooling surface for atleast about 3 minutes to about 5 minutes or more prior to insertion ofthe needle.

In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 5 seconds prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 10 seconds prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 15 seconds prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 30 seconds prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 45 seconds prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 1 minute prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 2 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 3 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 4 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 5 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 6 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 7 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 8 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 9 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 10 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle. In some embodiments, the injection region is contacted with theactive-cooling surface for about 15 minutes prior to insertion of theneedle.

Vibrator

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a vibrator. In someembodiments, the vibrator is activated by the user depressing a buttonor switch. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the vibrator isactivated remotely by activation of an additional button and/or switch.In some embodiments, the vibrator creates vibrations that aretransmitted through surface of the distal portion of the cartridge 234a. In some embodiments, the vibrator generates vibrations that producean anesthetic effect, as perceived by the patient. In some embodiments,the vibrations produced by the vibrator create an anesthetic effect onthe surface of the skin and/or in underlying tissue of the patient. Insome embodiments, activating the thermoelectric cooler of the insertiondevice decreases the pain level that the patient feels during a medicalprocedure using the insertion device (e.g., needle insertion and/orcatheter insertion and/or deployment). In some embodiments, activatingthe vibrator of the insertion device anesthetizes the surface of theskin and/or underlying tissue of the patient during a medical procedureusing the insertion device (e.g., needle insertion and/or catheterinsertion and/or deployment). In some embodiments, activating thevibrator of the insertion device has a local anesthetic effect on thepatient. In some embodiments, activating the vibrator of the insertiondevice has a local anesthetic effect on an injection region of thepatient. In some embodiments, activating the vibrator of the insertiondevice desensitizes, numbs, or deprives of sensation the surface of theskin and/or underlying tissue of the patient during a medical procedureusing the insertion device (e.g., needle insertion and/or catheterinsertion and/or deployment). In some embodiments, activation of thevibrator is controlled by the computing device. In some embodiments,activation of the vibrator is stopped based on the activation time ofthe thermoelectric cooler.

In some embodiments, activation of the vibrator causes the surface ofthe distal portion of the cartridge 234 a to vibrate when the needle isinserted into the injection region of the individual. In someembodiments, activation of the vibrator causes the needle to vibratewhen the needle is inserted into the injection region of the individual.

In some embodiments, the vibration has a vibration frequency rangingfrom about 100 Hertz (Hz) to about 300 Hz. In some embodiments, thevibrator produces a vibration frequency from at least about 100 Hz. Insome embodiments, the vibrator produces a vibration frequency from atmost about 300 Hz. In some embodiments, the vibrator produces avibration frequency from about 100 Hz to about 125 Hz, about 100 Hz toabout 150 Hz, about 100 Hz to about 175 Hz, about 100 Hz to about 200Hz, about 100 Hz to about 225 Hz, about 100 Hz to about 250 Hz, about100 Hz to about 275 Hz, about 100 Hz to about 300 Hz, about 125 Hz toabout 150 Hz, about 125 Hz to about 175 Hz, about 125 Hz to about 200Hz, about 125 Hz to about 225 Hz, about 125 Hz to about 250 Hz, about125 Hz to about 275 Hz, about 125 Hz to about 300 Hz, about 150 Hz toabout 175 Hz, about 150 Hz to about 200 Hz, about 150 Hz to about 225Hz, about 150 Hz to about 250 Hz, about 150 Hz to about 275 Hz, about150 Hz to about 300 Hz, about 175 Hz to about 200 Hz, about 175 Hz toabout 225 Hz, about 175 Hz to about 250 Hz, about 175 Hz to about 275Hz, about 175 Hz to about 300 Hz, about 200 Hz to about 225 Hz, about200 Hz to about 250 Hz, about 200 Hz to about 275 Hz, about 200 Hz toabout 300 Hz, about 225 Hz to about 250 Hz, about 225 Hz to about 275Hz, about 225 Hz to about 300 Hz, about 250 Hz to about 275 Hz, about250 Hz to about 300 Hz, or about 275 Hz to about 300 Hz. In someembodiments, the vibrator produces a vibration frequency from about 100Hz, about 125 Hz, about 150 Hz, about 175 Hz, about 200 Hz, about 225Hz, about 250 Hz, about 275 Hz, or about 300 Hz.

In some embodiments, the vibration has an amplitude ranging from about0.3 G (wherein G is gravitational acceleration, i.e., 9.8 meters persecond squared) to about 125 G. In some embodiments, the vibratorproduces a vibration with an amplitude from at least about 0.3 G. Insome embodiments, the vibrator produces a vibration with an amplitudefrom at most about 125 G. In some embodiments, the vibrator produces avibration with an amplitude from about 0.3 G to about 1 G, about 0.3 Gto about 5 G, about 0.3 G to about 15 G, about 0.3 G to about 25 G,about 0.3 G to about 50 G, about 0.3 G to about 75 G, about 0.3 G toabout 100 G, about 0.3 G to about 105 G, about 0.3 G to about 110 G,about 0.3 G to about 125 G, about 1 G to about 5 G, about 1 G to about15 G, about 1 G to about 25 G, about 1 G to about 50 G, about 1 G toabout 75 G, about 1 G to about 100 G, about 1 G to about 105 G, about 1G to about 110 G, about 1 G to about 125 G, about 5 G to about 15 G,about 5 G to about 25 G, about 5 G to about 50 G, about 5 G to about 75G, about 5 G to about 100 G, about 5 G to about 105 G, about 5 G toabout 110 G, about 5 G to about 125 G, about 15 G to about 25 G, about15 G to about 50 G, about 15 G to about 75 G, about 15 G to about 100 G,about 15 G to about 105 G, about 15 G to about 110 G, about 15 G toabout 125 G, about 25 G to about 50 G, about 25 G to about 75 G, about25 G to about 100 G, about 25 G to about 105 G, about 25 G to about 110G, about 25 G to about 125 G, about 50 G to about 75 G, about 50 G toabout 100 G, about 50 G to about 105 G, about 50 G to about 110 G, about50 G to about 125 G, about 75 G to about 100 G, about 75 G to about 105G, about 75 G to about 110 G, about 75 G to about 125 G, about 100 G toabout 105 G, about 100 G to about 110 G, about 100 G to about 125 G,about 105 G to about 110 G, about 105 G to about 125 G, or about 110 Gto about 125 G. In some embodiments, the vibrator produces a vibrationwith an amplitude from about 0.3 G, about 1 G, about 5 G, about 15 G,about 25 G, about 50 G, about 75 G, about 100 G, about 105 G, about 110G, or about 125 G.

In some embodiments, the vibrator is configured to cause theactive-cooling surface, the drug delivery device, and/or a needle tovibrate. In some embodiments, the vibrator is configured to cause thedistal portion of the cartridge 234 a to vibrate. In some embodiments,the vibrator is configured to cause the thermoelectric cooling andvibration area 214 to vibrate. In some embodiments, the vibratorcomprises a motor. In some embodiments, the motor is an eccentricrotating mass vibration motor or a linear resonant actuator. In someembodiments, the control of the activation and inactivation of thevibration and thermoelectric cooler is automatically triggered byattaching the cartridge 234 to the insertion device.

Cartridge and Cartridge Receiver

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are needle cartridges,comprising a needle; a plate having a planar surface and a thicknessconfigured to allow an ultrasound wave to pass therethrough; a needleholder, comprising an interior having a proximal end and a distal endand a track therebetween, the track having track walls configured toguide the needle, a needle connector configured to couple the needle toa plurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at the distalend of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal end of theneedle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening.

In some embodiments, the needle cartridge may comprise one, two, or moreneedles, catheters, or medical devices which may be specificallyselected and controlled by the user. In some embodiments, the user canchoose which needle, catheter, or other device is activated ordeactivated by pressing a button, using a touch screen, voice command,or other control. The activation or deactivation can signal the computerto change which portion of the device is activated or deactivated, orreceives signal output from the computer and controls. In someembodiments, the purpose of one, some, or all of the of the needles,catheters, or medical devices can be to inject a medication, fluid,tissue, cells, blood, other biological substances, or other materialinto a specific area, organ, vessel, tissue, nerve, joint, bone, tendon,or space on or within the patient's body. In some embodiments, thepurpose of one, some, or all of the of the needles, catheters, ormedical devices may alternatively be to drain, extract, biopsy, remove,withdrawal a medication, fluid, tissue, cells, other biologicalsubstances, or other material into a specific area, organ, vessel,tissue, nerve, joint, bone, tendon, or space on or within the patient'sbody. In some embodiments, the purpose of one, some, or all of the ofthe needles, catheters, or medical devices may alternately be to drill,penetrate, cut, or various other actions performed on a specific area,organ, vessel, tissue, nerve, joint, bone, tendon, or space on or withinthe patient's body. In some embodiments, the purpose of one, some, orall of the of the needles, catheters, or medical devices may alternatelybe to introduce a catheter, tube, wire, cardiac device, stent, sensor,or other medical device to a specific area, organ, vessel, tissue,nerve, joint, bone, tendon, or space on or within the patient's body. Insome embodiments, one needle catheter, catheter, or medical device canperform one, two, or more of these functions listed, or they may performmultiple functions, which may include two or more of the safe functions,or any combination of the functions above, or others functions notlisted here.

In some embodiments, some non-limiting examples of cartridges comprisingone, two, or more needles, catheters, or medical devices with variouspurposes can include, but not be limited to, those in the disclosedherein. In some embodiments, a cartridge intended for joint proceduresthat contains three needles, with one used for anesthetizing a targetarea, one used for extracting fluid from the joint, and one used forinjecting medications, cells, or biological substances into the joint.In some embodiments, a cartridge intended for joint procedures thatcontains two needles, with one used for anesthetizing a target area, andone for penetrating the joint capsule and used for injectingmedications, cells, or biological substances, or other material into thejoint space and also used for withdrawing joint fluid, cells, tissue, orother substances. In some embodiments, the cartridge intended forcentral venous procedures may contain two needles, one which is used forintroducing anesthetizing fluids into the tissue near the target vessel,and one for introducing a needle, guidewire, catheter into the vessel,and capable of injecting blood, medications, or other substances intothe vessel, and capable of withdrawing blood, medications, or othersubstances as well. In some embodiments, a cartridge used for abdominalparacentesis procedures may contain two needles, with one needle forinjecting anesthetizing fluid into a target tissue, and one needle forpenetrating a portion of completely through the abdominal wall andremoving fluid and capable of introducing a catheter, and also capableof introducing a safety needle from within that needle used to penetratethe interior aspect of the abdominal wall that decreases the likelihoodof penetrating bowel wall once in the abdomen. In some embodiments, acartridge used for peripheral venous procedures, with two needles, withone for injecting an anesthetizing fluid to target tissue, and one forpenetrating a vessel wall and introducing a guide wire and catheter thatis also capable of injecting other fluids or substances or withdrawingblood or other fluids.

In some embodiments, the user does not use the cartridge in combinationwith the insertion device for a medical procedure (e.g., a needle and/orcatheter insertion). In some embodiments, the user only uses theinsertion device and does not use the cartridge for a medical procedure(e.g., a needle and/or catheter insertion). In some embodiments, thecartridge is sterile. In some embodiments, the cartridge is disposable.In some embodiments, the cartridge allows the transmission of one ormore imaging modalities (e.g., ultrasound waves and/or infraredradiation). In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises medicalinstrumentation that is manipulated by the user in accordance with thoseimaging modalities.

In some embodiments, the cartridge serves as a barrier between thepatient and the insertion device. In some embodiments, the cartridgeserves as a barrier between the cartridge and the insertion device. Insome embodiments, the cartridge protects the insertion device fromcontamination of blood or any other bodily fluid. In some embodiments,the cartridge acts as a bodily fluid-insertion device barrier. In someembodiments, the cartridge prevents costly decontamination proceduresthat would have to be carried out if the insertion device were to becontaminated by a bodily fluid. In some embodiments, the cartridgeprevents replacement of an insertion device due to contamination ofblood or any other bodily fluid. In some embodiments, the cartridgeprotects the patient from a contaminant present in or on the insertiondevice. In some embodiments, the cartridge protects a sample (e.g., ablood sample) from a contaminant present in or on the insertion device.In some embodiments, one or more mechanical parts that comprise thecartridge are designed to act as barrier while allowing for movement ofthe needle cartridge. In some embodiments, the cartridge allows movementof a needle holder, a needle, a guidewire, a catheter, or anycombinations thereof, without exposing and/or contacting the inner partsof the cartridge to and/or with the insertion device and/or the patient.In some embodiments, the cartridge is sterile. In some embodiments, thecartridge is non-sterile.

In some embodiments, the cartridge 134 is coupled to the cartridgereceiver 118. In some embodiments, the cartridge 134 is reversiblycoupled to the cartridge receiver 118. In some embodiments, thecartridge receiver 118 and the cartridge 134 are operatively connected.In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver 118 and the cartridge 134are reversibly and operatively connected. In some embodiments, the upperleft connector 142 a, the upper right connector 142 b, the lower rightconnector 142 c, and the lower left connector 142 d are configured toengage with the plurality of second connectors (not shown in FIGS. 2Aand 2B).

In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver 118 comprises a plurality oftabs configured to release the cartridge receiver 118 from the cartridge134, once it is depressed by a user. In some embodiments, the cartridgereceiver 118 comprises a tab configured to be depressed or pushed by auser in order to detach the cartridge receiver 118 from the cartridge134. In some embodiments, the cartridge 134 and the cartridge receiver118 are reversibly, operatively coupled to each other via a mechanismthat includes an audible indication, such as, but not limited to, aclicking noise, a recording, and/or a ding sound, that indicates whenthe cartridge 134 and the cartridge receiver 118 are attached ordetached by a user.

In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver 118 comprises a frame havinga rail on either of its sides, the rail configured to secure the needleholder. In some embodiments, the cartridge 134 has a top surface, abottom surface, a proximal end, and a distal end. In some embodiments,the cartridge 134 comprises a plurality of second connectors located onthe top surface of the cartridge 134 (not shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). Insome embodiments, the plurality of second connectors is configured toform an electrical connection with the plurality of first connectors ofthe cartridge receiver 118.

In some embodiments, the plurality of first connectors is a plurality ofmale connectors. In some embodiments, the plurality of second connectorsis a plurality of male connectors. In some embodiments, the plurality offirst connectors is a plurality of female connectors. In someembodiments, the plurality of second connectors is a plurality of femaleconnectors. In some embodiments, the plurality of second connectors is aplurality of tabs located within the cartridge receiver 118. In someembodiments, the plurality of first connectors fit into the tabs andallow for attachment of the two components. In some embodiments,additional connectors are located along the housing of the needle holder138. In some embodiments, additional connectors are located on theposterior inner housing of the cartridge receiver.

Non-limiting examples of how to load the cartridge 134 onto theinsertion device 100, include, pressing the cartridge 134 into theinsertion device 100, including using snap fit features that allow thecartridge 134 to stay in place once loaded onto the insertion device100, any magnetic means to hold the cartridge 134 in place, and/or anymechanical means to hold the cartridge 134 in place. In someembodiments, a tugging string is used to snap the cartridge 134 out ofthe insertion device 100. In some embodiments the cartridge 134comprises snap ledges or other reversible means of loading thedisposable sensor unit into the insertion device 100. In someembodiments, the cartridge 134 remains in place simply because it abutsa ledge of the insertion device 100. In some embodiments, one or moretabs are present on the external surface of the insertion device 100. Insome embodiments, the cartridge 134 is reversibly loaded onto theinsertion device 100.

In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises a plate 135. In someembodiments, the plate 135 has a planar surface and a thicknessconfigured to allow the ultrasound wave to pass therethrough. In someembodiments, the plate 135 is fixed relative to the cartridge receiver.In some embodiments, the insertion device 100 comprises a disposablesleeve (not shown in the figures) configured to receive the cartridge134. In some embodiments, the disposable sleeve is a sterile sleeve. Insome embodiments, the sterile sleeve provides a sterile barrier betweenthe insertion device 100 and the patient.

In some embodiments, the planar surface of the plate 135 comes incontact with the surface of the skin of the individual when using theinsertion device. In some embodiments, the plate 135 is fixed relativeto the cartridge receiver 118. In some embodiments, the plate 135 is aceramic plate. In some embodiments, the ceramic is a lead zirconatetitanate composition. In some embodiments, the plate 135 is apiezoresistive material. In some embodiments, the plate 135 is a backingmaterial that reduces and/or prevents excessive vibration. In someembodiments, the plate 135 is an acoustic matching material that enablesthe ultrasound wave to efficiently enter the target tissue. In someembodiments, the acoustic matching material reduces the impedance of thetarget tissue that is reflected onto the ultrasound transducer. In someembodiments, the acoustic matching material comprises a combination ofdifferent resins. In some embodiments, the plate 135 has a densitysimilar to soft tissue. In some embodiments, the plate 135 comprises agel. In some embodiments, the gel is a gel elastomer. In someembodiments, the plate 135 is a metal plate. In some embodiments, theplate 135 is a plastic plate. In some embodiments, the plate 135 is anelastomeric plate. In some embodiments, the plate 135 comprises acomposition of a polymer, metal, or both. In some embodiments, the plate135 has a solid surface. In some embodiments, the plate 135 is has anelastomeric surface. In some embodiments, the elastomeric plate is athermoplastic elastomeric plate. In some embodiments, the thermoplasticelastomeric plate is a gel. Non-limiting examples of a plastic or anelastomer include polyethylene; polypropylene; polystyrene; polyester;polylactic acid (PLA); polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylchloride plastisol (PVCP), polyethersulfone, polyacrylate or acrylic orpolymethylmethacrylate (PMMA); polysulfone; polyetheretherketone (PEEK);thermoplastic elastomers or thermoplastic urethanes; and poly-p-xylyleneor parylene. In some embodiments, the plate 135 is a silicone plate. Insome embodiments, the plate 135 is a PVCP plate. In some embodiments,the plate 135 is an epoxy plate.

Alternatively, in other embodiments, the insertion device comprises acartridge 234, as shown in FIGS. 6-10 and as described elsewhere herein.

During an insertion procedure, correct alignment of the cartridge can beessential to correctly determine the needle/catheter position and/or theorientation relative to the ultrasound transducer. In certainembodiments, the cartridge is aligned/calibrated with respect to theneedle/catheter position and the ultrasound transducer prior to theneedle insertion.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a cartridge loadingsensor to identify when a cartridge is properly inserted into thecartridge receiver. In some embodiments, the cartridge loading sensorcan comprise an electrical limit switch. In some embodiments, thecartridge loading sensor can comprise an optical switch. In otherembodiments, the cartridge loading sensor can be a hall-effect sensor.In other embodiments, the cartridge loading sensor can comprise a seriesof electrical contacts on both the cartridge and the cartridge receiver.In certain embodiments, the cartridge loading sensor comprises alignmentfeatures. In other embodiments, the cartridge loading sensor is anycombination thereof.

In some embodiments, different types of cartridges can be loaded to thecartridge receiver. The different cartridges can comprise differentsized needles. The different cartridges can comprise the catheters ofdifferent length, diameter, and/or materials. The different cartridgescan comprise different combination of the needle and the catheter. Thedifferent cartridges can allow different range of needle and/or needlestage motions.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a cartridge detectorto correctly identify the type of cartridge inserted into the cartridgereceiver. In some embodiments, the cartridge detector is an NFC chiplocated in the cartridge. In other embodiments, the cartridge detectoris a barcode scanning system built into the insertion device. In otherembodiments, the cartridge detector comprises an internal printedcircuit board (PCB). In other embodiments, the cartridge type ismanually selected by the user. In other embodiments, the cartridgedetector is any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the cartridge or device may comprise a specificshape according to the anatomic features, body size, or age of thepatient. In some embodiments, the cartridge device may have varyingshapes related to anatomic differences such as thickness of skin, depthof target vessels, depth of target organs, size of target lumen orspace, or other anatomic differences. In some embodiments, thecartridges or device may have varying shapes for intended body size andshape of the patient. In some embodiments, the cartridges may havespecific shape according to the patient's age. Some non-limitingexamples of cartridge and device specific shapes would include smallbottom surfaces on the cartridges intended for pediatric patients,patients with small lumen vessels, patients with small stature, orvarious other intended or anticipated characteristics of the patient'sbody. Other anatomic differences for which some cartridges may bespecifically shaped for would unusually deep target vessels or organs,thick layers of tissue over the target, unusually mobile or fragilevessels, all of which may be more successful with shape of cartridgesthat are larger or angled on the bottom of the cartridge such that theneedle, catheter, or medical devices can be inserted deeper within thetissue. In some embodiments, many other size and shape variations of thecartridge and device can be used for specific anatomic features of thepatient, body size of the patient, or age of patient. In someembodiments, the cartridge and device size and shape may vary accordingto a combination more than one anatomic feature, body size, age, type ofprocedure, or other variables not here listed.

In some embodiments, the starting position and allowable movement pathof the imaging device is dictated by the cartridge attached to thedevice. In some embodiments, the cartridge may have a certain shape tooptimize various aspects of the intended procedure, and the shape of therequired cartridge may also be affected by other variables such as thesize or anatomic features of the patient, and the intended proceduralsite of the procedure. When the user attaches the desired cartridge tothe device, a sensor on the device detects the various features of thecartridge or detects a sign or signal of those shaped components,features, and intended procedure, which is sent to the onboard computer,computed, and output form that computer is sent to the mechanismscontrolling the position of the imaging device, and moves it to apreferred starting position within the cartridge. When the usersubsequently adjusts the location of the imaging device, the signalssending the control input are sent to the computer, which only will sendoutput to the imaging control mechanisms to move the imaging devicewithin those necessary parameters.

In some embodiments, the starting and allowable settings, displayedimage depth, gain, and other aspects of the image screen and displayedinformation also are specific to the attached cartridge. As disclosedherein, in some embodiments, the cartridge may have a certain shape tooptimize various aspects of the intended procedure, and the shape of therequired cartridge may also be affected by other variables such as thesize or anatomic features of the patient, and the intended proceduralsite of the procedure. Because of the variations in shape and need tooptimize the displayed image for certain procedures, the starting andallowable settings, displayed image depth, gain, and other aspects ofthe image screen and displayed information can be varied appropriately.When the user attaches the desired cartridge to the device, a sensor onthe device can detect the various features of the cartridge or detect asign or signal of those shape components, features, and intendedprocedure, which is sent to the onboard computer, computed, and outputform that computer is sent to the imaging device and display screen.

In some embodiments, the shape of the cartridge is unique to theintended procedure. The shape of the cartridge can be optimized for thetype of procedure for which it is intended such that it provides forbetter surface contact between the patient and the cartridge, allows forbetter image quality, allows for better image fields, allows for moredesirable movement of the imaging component relative to the device orpatient's body, allows for more effective or useful vacuum actions ofthe cartridge or device, allows for better attachment to the patient,allows for more preferable angles of needle and device insertion, allowsthe user to be in a more comfortable or accessible position relative tothe procedure location, allows for views or images for which the userare more familiar with, allows for improved safety, allows for increasedlikelihood of procedural success, provides more comfort for the patient,provides some other advantage, or some combination of the advantagesthereof. When the user chooses to perform a certain procedure, the usercan select a cartridge with a shape intended for use for that procedure.

In some embodiments, the cartridge is shaped for peripheral venousprocedures, central venous procedures, arterial procedures, abscessdrainage procedures, biopsy procedures, joint procedures, nerveprocedures, spinal procedures, chest tube procedures, cardiacprocedures, other thoracic procedures, cricothyroidotomy procedures,other neck procedures, abdominal paracentesis procedures, bladderprocedures, other abdominal procedures, other extremity procedures,other head procedures, osseous procedures, other procedures, a procedureinvolving a certain approach of the device relative to body, a subset ofany of these procedures, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the shape and external of the cartridge is intendedfor peripheral venous procedures. In some embodiments, this cartridgehas a slight curvature on the bottom of the device in the horizontalplane relative to the body of the device, such that the curvature allowsfor better contact between the lower surface of the cartridge and theskin surface of an extremity. This shape allows for the imagingcomponent to move substantially in the longitudinal direction andhorizontal directions, change axis direction relative to the surface ofthe skin, change vertical location, among other useful movements. Thisshape would provide a more comfortable positioning of the user. Theshape would also allow the user to activate the vacuum components of thecartridge or device in a more useful manner, with vacuum area at thedistal end of the device to provide a more effective tourniquet effecton the vessels running longitudinal relative to the body of the device,while providing stability of the device in the longitudinal planerelative to the longitudinal plane of the extremity. In otherembodiments, the cartridge may have a different shape to optimizedifferent aspects of this procedure.

In some embodiments, the shape of the cartridge is intended for centralvenous access. In some embodiments, the cartridge intended for centralvenous procedures, has a bottom surface that is slightly curved in thehorizontal direction. In some embodiments, the cartridge shape alsoincludes a longer proximal portion of the cartridge in the vertical ascompared to the front portion of the cartridge, and a shorter bottomside compared to some other cartridges. The shape is such that thebottom portion of the device is angled relative to the patient's skinsurface, with the posterior aspect of the device is farther from thesurface of the skin. This shape can make it easier for the user toinsert the needle at a more acute angle, as the central venousstructures are located deeper than peripheral structures and increasesthe likelihood of procedural success. The smaller bottom surface of thecartridge in this embodiment, can make it easier for the user to performthe procedure on areas of the patient that have limited skin surfaceavailable, such as the side of the neck when accessing the internaljugular vein among other locations. In other embodiments, the cartridgeintended for central venous access may have a different shape tooptimize different aspects of this procedure.

In some embodiments, the shape of the cartridge is intended for arterialprocedures. In some embodiments, the bottom of this cartridge has asignificantly shorter bottom in the longitudinal direction as opposed totop side. This can decrease the longitudinal surface area of portion ofthe cartridge to allow better access the arteries of the wrist, whichhave a limited accessible area in the longitudinal direction in somepatients. In other embodiments, the cartridge intended for arterialaccess may have a different shape to optimize different aspects of thisprocedure.

In some embodiments, the shape of the cartridge is intended for jointprocedures. In some embodiments, the shape of the cartridge is intendedspecific to a subsegment of these procedures. In some embodiments, theshape of the cartridge is intended for knee procedures. In someembodiments, there is a curvature in a portion of the bottom side of thecartridge, with only the distal end of the cartridge where the imagingdevice images the patient's leg being curved in the longitudinaldirection. This can allow the procedure to be performed with the longaxis of the body of the device in a perpendicular orientation relativeto the leg length direction. The needle insertion orientation canimprove the likelihood of success of the procedure, while allowing forthe vacuum effects of the cartridge or device to be more effective.

In some embodiments, the shape of the needle cartridge is intended for adifferent subsegment of the joint procedures. In some embodiments, theshape of the needle cartridge is intended for hip procedures. In someembodiments, there is a curvature in the horizontal direction on theentirety of the bottom surface of the cartridge. This allows for morestability of the device on the leg, more effective vacuum effects. Inother embodiments, the cartridge intended for hip procedures may have adifferent shape to optimize different aspects of this procedure.

In some embodiments, the shape of the needle cartridge is intended forspinal procedures. In some embodiments, the cartridge intended forspinal procedures has a bottom surface is divided into two sections,which sit at different angles relative to the bottom of the device andto the surface of the skin. The more distal portion of the bottomsurface is angled with the bottom surface facing distally, and the moreproximal portion of the bottom surface of the cartridge may be angledforward as well, but at a less acute angle relative to the bottom of thedevice housing. This can allow for better imaging of the vertebralspinous processes and allow the angle for needle and medical deviceinsertion to take place significantly closer to perpendicular to theskin surface, to go deeper and between those vertebral spinousprocesses. In this embodiment the vacuum portions of the cartridge anddevice are on the more distal surface of the bottom side of thecartridge. In other embodiments, the cartridge intended for spinalprocedures may have a different shape to optimize different aspects ofthis procedure.

In some embodiments, the shape of the needle cartridge is intended forabdominal paracentesis. In some embodiments, the cartridge intended forabdominal paracentesis has a bottom shape which is curved in thehorizontal axis, and the bottom side of the cartridge effacing the skinis shorter in length than the upper side which faces the device. Thebottom side of the cartridge may also be angled slightly forward. Thisshape can improve the surface contact, the imaging angle, and increaseease of use by the user among other benefits. In other embodiments, thecartridge intended for abdominal paracentesis procedures may have adifferent shape to optimize different aspects of this procedure.

In some embodiments, the shape of the needle cartridge is intended forthoracic procedures, such as tube thoracostomy, thoracentesis,paracardiocentesis, or other thoracic procedures. In some embodiments,the cartridge intended for thoracic procedures has a bottom surface isdivided into two sections, which sit at different angles relative to thebottom of the device and to the surface of the skin. The more distalportion of the bottom surface is angled with the bottom surface facingdistally, and the more proximal portion of the bottom surface of thecartridge is angled forward as well, but at a less acute angle relativeto the bottom of the device housing. This can allow for better imagingof the ribs, and allows the angle for needle and medical deviceinsertion to take place at a steeper to the skin surface in order to godeeper and between the ribs. In this embodiment the vacuum portions ofthe cartridge and device are on the more distal surface of the bottomside of the cartridge. In other embodiments, the cartridge intended forthoracic procedures may have a different shape to optimize differentaspects of this procedure.

In some embodiments, the shape of the needle cartridges is intended forosseous procedures, such as interosseous line placement in the extremityor sternum, or other osseous procedures. In some embodiments, thecartridge intended for osseous procedures has a bottom surface isdivided into two sections, which sit at different angles relative to thebottom of the device and to the surface of the skin. The more distalportion of the bottom surface is angled with the bottom surface facingdistally, and the more proximal portion of the bottom surface of thecartridge is angled forward as well, but at a less acute angle relativeto the bottom of the device housing. This angle can be present so theuser can apply more force on the device relative to the patient's bodysurface, and the needle or insertion component can be directedperpendicular to the surface of the skin and bone, among otheradvantages. In other embodiments, the cartridge intended for osseousprocedures may have a different shape to optimize different aspects ofthis procedure.

In some embodiments, the cartridge contains one or more pain reductionmechanisms. This can include a thermal mass which may be pre-cooledbefore the procedure, constant or intermittent vibration mechanisms,thermal transduction area, rough distracting surface, evaporating liquidemitter, or other pain reduction mechanisms. The cartridge may compriseone or any combination of the disclosed pain reduction mechanisms.

In some embodiments, the cartridge may comprise one or more medication,fluid, tissue, cells, blood, other biological substances, or othermaterial that is preloaded into a container or containers within thecartridge according to the specific intended purpose of that insertiondevice. In some embodiments, that preloaded substance can be one or moremedications including, but not limited to, lidocaine, bupivacaine,epinephrine, vasopressin, norepinephrine, antibiotics, othermedications, other fluids, other mixtures, and other substances. In someembodiments, the cartridge may comprise preloaded biological fluids,blood, antibodies, tissue, cells, stem cells, or other biologicalsubstances.

In some embodiments, the cartridge may comprise a fluid tube or otherconnection between the preloaded fluids or substance holding containersand one or more of the needles, catheters, medical devices.

In some embodiments, the device may be simplified such that a cartridgewith manually controllable vacuum areas on the bottom surface is able toattach to a standard ultrasound probe while providing a barrier betweenthe ultrasound probe and the patients' skin, tissue, and bodily fluids.In some embodiments, the vacuum area would draw air and tissue fromunder the cartridge, stabilizing the cartridge and probe. In some of theembodiments, the probe attachment portion of this cartridge would bemobile along the longitudinal length of the cartridge, or the axis maybe turned from horizontal orientation relative to the cartridge, ormoved vertically such that the probe is applying more or less pressureto the underlying tissue, or have the capability for some combination ofthose movements. In some embodiments, the device further comprises anattachment for a mobile device or screen which displays the ultrasoundimage, with other embodiments requiring the user to view the displaywhich the probe is attached to.

In some embodiments, the device may comprise one or more controls,electrical connections, computing abilities, motion functions, orinjections functions, such that the user can control with a high degreeof accuracy the amount of fluid, blood, medication, cells, otherbiological fluids, or other substances injected through one of theneedles, catheters, or other medical devices. In some embodiments thesefluids, blood medications, may be preloaded in the cartridge orconnected to the outer aspects of the cartridge, directly, throughtubing, or through some other type of connection.

Needle Holder

In some embodiments, the cartridge 134 comprises a needle holder 138, asshown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In some embodiments, the needle holder 138holds the medical device to be inserted into the patient. In someembodiments, the needle holder 138 holds a syringe and/or a catheter. Insome embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises a rectangularcompartment comprised of a metal and/or polymer material. In someembodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises an interior having aproximal end 127, a distal end 125, and a track (not shown in FIGS. 2Aand 2B) therebetween. In some embodiments, the track has wallsconfigured to guide a needle. In some embodiments, the track has wallsconfigured to guide a syringe. In some embodiments, the needle holder138 comprises a needle connector (not shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B)configured to couple the syringe to a plurality of actuators (not shownin FIGS. 2A and 2B). In some embodiments, the plurality of actuatorscomprises a spring actuator and an angle actuator. In some embodiments,the spring actuator controls the longitudinal movement of the needle. Insome embodiments, the angle actuator controls the needle holder angle.In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a hydraulic,pneumatic, electric, or mechanical actuator. In some embodiments, ahydraulic actuator converts hydraulic power into mechanical energy. Insome embodiments, a pneumatic actuator converts the energy of compressedgas into motion. In some embodiments, electric actuators convertelectrical energy into mechanical torque. In some embodiments,mechanical actuators convert rotary motion into linear motion. In someembodiments, the actuator implemented enables the device to adjust theposition of the needle prior to injection.

In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises an interior. Insome embodiments, the interior has a proximal end, distal end, and atrack therebetween. In some embodiments, the track 134 has at least onetrack wall configured to guide the needle 168. In some embodiments, theneedle holder 138 comprises a needle connector configured to couple theneedle to a plurality of actuators. In some embodiments, the pluralityof actuators comprises a spring actuator and an angle actuator. In someembodiments, the spring actuator controls the longitudinal movement ofthe needle. In some embodiments, the angle actuator controls the needleholder angle. In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises aport lever or a collection tube configured to be received by the port.In some embodiments, the port lever moves within a cartridge arc path asthe needle holder is moved from one selected position to another.

In some embodiments, the needle holder comprises a needle holder opening160 located at the distal end of the needle holder 138. In someembodiments, the needle holder comprises a port located at the proximalend of the needle holder 138. In some embodiments, the needle exitsthrough the needle holder opening 160.

In some embodiments, the needle holder track 136, allows the needleholder to move when the user adjusts needle angle, as shown by the arrowin FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, the needle holder track 136 is locatedalong a right lateral side or a left lateral side of the insertiondevice 100. In some embodiments, the needle holder track 136 has acurved shaped. In some embodiments, the needle holder track 136 extendsuniformly in one direction only. In some embodiments, the needle holdertrack 136 is configured to receive a knob or a lever that is used tomanually move and/or change the angle of the needle holder 138. In someembodiments, the tube 120 serves as a knob or a lever once inserted intothe port 115, as shown in FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, the needleholder 138 is automatically moved along the needle holder track 136. Insome embodiments, the angle of the needle holder 138 is automaticallyadjusted along the needle holder track 136.

In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 comprises a port 115. In someembodiments, the port 115 comprises a lever to manually adjust the angleof the needle holder 138 prior to needle insertion. In some embodiments,the port 115 comprises a vacutainer connection that creates a vacuumseal inside a collection tube. In some embodiments, the port 115comprises a fluid connection with a collection tube. In someembodiments, the port 115 comprises a tubing connection. In someembodiments, the port 115 comprises an opening configured to receive atube (e.g., a vacutainer tube or a collection tube) or tubing. In someembodiments, the opening of the port comprises a seal (e.g., a gasket oran O-ring) to create a hermetic seal between the tube and the port 115.In some embodiments, the seal is composed of synthetic rubber or athermoplastic. In some embodiments, the seal sits on the rim of the port115. In some embodiments, the seal sits on the outer edge of the port115. In some embodiments, the port 115 is located on the distal end ofthe insertion device 100 and on the dorsal side of the insertion device100.

In some embodiments, the port 115 is used as a terminal for tubing andmanual adjustment of the needle holder angle. In some embodiments,tubing is inserted into the insertion device 100 through the port 115for the collection of blood following needle insertion. In someembodiments, the tubing is latex free, sterile, and rubber. In mostembodiments, the tubing length is 18 inches. In some embodiments, thetubing length is about 26 inches. In some embodiments, the tubing lengthcomprises a variety of lengths. In some embodiments, the diameter of thetubing is about 7 millimeters (mm) or about 9/32 inches, for example. Insome embodiments, the diameter of the tubing comprises standard tubingdiameters.

In some embodiments, the needle holder 138 is movable angular-wise andmoves within the housing 122. In some embodiments, the needle holder 138is angled at a needle holder angle 139 as shown in FIG. 3B. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 ranges between about 0° toabout 80°. In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is at leastabout 0 degrees. In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is atmost about 80 degrees. In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139is about 0 degrees to about 5 degrees, about 0 degrees to about 10degrees, about 0 degrees to about 15 degrees, about 0 degrees to about20 degrees, about 0 degrees to about 25 degrees, about 0 degrees toabout 30 degrees, about 0 degrees to about 35 degrees, about 0 degreesto about 40 degrees, about 0 degrees to about 45 degrees, about 0degrees to about 50 degrees, about 0 degrees to about 55 degrees, about0 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 0 degrees to about 65 degrees,about 0 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 0 degrees to about 75degrees, or about 0 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 5 degrees toabout 10 degrees, about 5 degrees to about 15 degrees, about 5 degreesto about 20 degrees, about 5 degrees to about 25 degrees, about 5degrees to about 30 degrees, about 5 degrees to about 35 degrees, about5 degrees to about 40 degrees, about 5 degrees to about 45 degrees,about 5 degrees to about 50 degrees, about 5 degrees to about 55degrees, about 5 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 5 degrees to about65 degrees, about 5 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 5 degrees toabout 75 degrees, or about 5 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 10 degrees toabout 15 degrees, about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees, about 10 degreesto about 25 degrees, about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees, about 10degrees to about 35 degrees, about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees, about10 degrees to about 45 degrees, about 10 degrees to about 50 degrees,about 10 degrees to about 55 degrees, about 10 degrees to about 60degrees, about 10 degrees to about 65 degrees, about 10 degrees to about70 degrees, about 10 degrees to about 75 degrees, or about 10 degrees toabout 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 15 degrees toabout 20 degrees, about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees, about 15 degreesto about 30 degrees, about 15 degrees to about 35 degrees, about 15degrees to about 40 degrees, about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees, about15 degrees to about 50 degrees, about 15 degrees to about 55 degrees,about 15 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 15 degrees to about 65degrees, about 15 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 15 degrees to about75 degrees, or about 15 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 20 degrees toabout 25 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 30 degrees, about 20 degreesto about 35 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 40 degrees, about 20degrees to about 45 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 50 degrees, about20 degrees to about 55 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees,about 20 degrees to about 65 degrees, about 20 degrees to about 70degrees, about 20 degrees to about 75 degrees, or about 20 degrees toabout 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 25 degrees toabout 30 degrees, about 25 degrees to about 35 degrees, about 25 degreesto about 40 degrees, about 25 degrees to about 45 degrees, about 25degrees to about 50 degrees, about 25 degrees to about 55 degrees, about25 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 25 degrees to about 65 degrees,about 25 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 25 degrees to about 75degrees, or about 25 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle is about 30 degrees toabout 35 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 40 degrees, about 30 degreesto about 45 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 50 degrees, about 30degrees to about 55 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, about30 degrees to about 65 degrees, about 30 degrees to about 70 degrees,about 30 degrees to about 75 degrees, or about 30 degrees to about 80degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 35 degrees toabout 40 degrees, about 35 degrees to about 45 degrees, about 35 degreesto about 50 degrees, about 35 degrees to about 55 degrees, about 35degrees to about 60 degrees, about 35 degrees to about 65 degrees, about35 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 35 degrees to about 75 degrees, orabout 35 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 40 degrees toabout 45 degrees, about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, about 40 degreesto about 55 degrees, about 40 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 40degrees to about 65 degrees, about 40 degrees to about 70 degrees, about40 degrees to about 75 degrees, or about 40 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 45 degrees toabout 50 degrees, about 45 degrees to about 55 degrees, about 45 degreesto about 60 degrees, about 45 degrees to about 65 degrees, about 45degrees to about 70 degrees, about 45 degrees to about 75 degrees, orabout 45 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 50 degrees toabout 55 degrees, about 50 degrees to about 60 degrees, about 50 degreesto about 65 degrees, about 50 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 50degrees to about 75 degrees, or about 50 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 55 degrees toabout 60 degrees, about 55 degrees to about 65 degrees, about 55 degreesto about 70 degrees, about 55 degrees to about 75 degrees, or about 55degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 60 degrees toabout 65 degrees, about 60 degrees to about 70 degrees, about 60 degreesto about 75 degrees, or about 60 degrees to about 80 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle is about 65 degrees to about 70degrees, about 65 degrees to about 75 degrees, or about 65 degrees toabout 80 degrees. In some embodiments, the needle holder angle is about70 degrees to about 75 degrees or about 70 degrees to about 80 degrees.In some embodiments, the needle holder angle is about 75 degrees orabout 75 degrees to about 80 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 0 degrees. Insome embodiments, the needle holder angle is about 1 degree. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 2 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 3 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 4 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 5 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 6 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 7 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 8 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 9 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 10 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 11 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 12 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 13 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 14 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 15 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 16 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 17 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 18 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 19 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 20 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 21 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 22 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 23 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 24 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 25 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 26 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 27 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 28 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 29 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 30 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 31 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 32 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 33 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 34 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 35 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 36 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 37 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 38 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 39 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 40 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 41 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 42 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 43 degrees.

In some embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 44 degrees. Insome embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 45 degrees. Insome embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 46 degrees. Insome embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 47 degrees. Insome embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 48 degrees. Insome embodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 49 degrees. Insome embodiments, the needle holder angle is about 50 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 51 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 52 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 53 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 54 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 55 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 56 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 57 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 58 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 59 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 60 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 61 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 62 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 63 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 64 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 65 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 66 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 67 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 68 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 69 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 70 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle is about 71 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 72 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 73 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 74 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 75 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 76 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 77 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 78 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 79 degrees. In someembodiments, the needle holder angle 139 is about 80 degrees.

Needle Drive Assembly

Proper needle insertion operation can require control of the insertionspeed and needle position relative to the installed cartridge. In someembodiments, the insertion device comprises a needle drive assembly tocontrol the insertion speed of the needle. The needle drive assembly mayallow for guide wire placement.

FIG. 15 illustrates the needle drive assembly 310, which can move theneedle and/or catheter to the target location in a linear fashionthrough the drive mechanism 311. In some embodiments, the drivemechanism 311 comprises a lead screw/nut combination. In otherembodiments, the drive mechanism comprises on a rack and pinion. Inother embodiments, the drive mechanism comprises a belt or chain drive.In some embodiments, the drive mechanism comprises a linear rail. Insome embodiments, the drive mechanism comprises a rod and bushingcombination. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism comprises a cabledriver. In other embodiments, the mechanism is any combination thereof.In some embodiments, the insertion by the needle drive assembly 310 isdriven with a stepper motor and lead screw 312. In other embodiments,the needle is be driven by an electrical linear actuator. In otherembodiments, the insertion is controlled using a piezo electric linearmotor. In other embodiments, the actuator is a servo motor connected toa cam system. In other embodiments, the needle is controlled using amagnetic drive system. In other embodiments, the needle drive assemblyis based on any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the needle drive assembly 310 comprises a releasingmechanism 313 to safely detach the catheter from the needle after theinsertion and prior to the removal of the device. In certainembodiments, releasing mechanism is mechanically triggered by a lever orpush button on the side of the device. In other embodiments, releasingmechanism is electrically triggered by a user engaging an actuator 314.In other embodiments the releasing mechanism is triggered via anelectrical needle/catheter stopper 315. In other embodiments, releasingmechanism is automatically triggered via a software algorithm.

In some embodiments, the releasing mechanism comprises a spring-drivenquick release 316, in which a pre-loaded spring connected to the needleis released to withdraw the needle after insertion, thereby removing thecatheter from the needle. In other embodiments, the catheter releasingmechanism comprises a solenoid. In other embodiments, catheter releasingmechanism comprises a cam connected to a servomotor. In otherembodiments, the catheter is manually removed by the user. In otherembodiments, the catheter releasing mechanism is pneumatic. In otherembodiments, the catheter releasing mechanism is based on anycombination thereof.

The insertion device may comprise needle/catheter stopper to prevent theneedle from being inserted too far into the patient or beyond the safetylimits. The degree of safety provided by the needle/catheter stopper maybe manually adjusted or calibrated by the user or automatically definedby the device and the ultrasound image. The degree of safety may dependon the depth of insertion by the needle and/or catheter.

In some embodiments the needle drive assembly comprises mechanicalneedle/catheter stopper 317 to prevent the needle/catheter from movingbeyond its intended range of motion. In other embodiments, theneedle/catheter stopper comprises electrical limit switches 315. Inother embodiments, the needle/catheter stopper comprises optical flags.In other embodiments, the needle/catheter stopper 317 is operativelyconnected to the drive mechanism 311. In other embodiments, theneedle/catheter stopper is manually set by a user to maintain at leastcertain degree of safety. In some embodiments, the needle/catheterstopper is set by the manufacturer. In other embodiments, theneedle/catheter stopper varies depending on the type of cartridgeinstalled into the insertion unit. In other embodiments, theneedle/catheter stopper is set automatically by the insertion devicethrough image recognition of the target anatomy. In other embodiments,the needle/catheter stopper is any combination thereof.

The needle drive assembly can have a control for the user to initiateand/or end the needle insertion. In some embodiments, the control of theneedle drive assembly may allow abortion of the insertion at any time.The needle drive assembly may not be automated. In other embodiments,the control may not allow abortion of needle insertion at any time. Theneedle drive assembly can be automated.

In some embodiments, the needle drive assembly is driven directly usinga one to one mechanical control by the user. In some embodiments, theone to one control allows for direct feedback to the needle duringinsertion. In some embodiments, the control mechanism allowsvisualization of the needle during insertion through a window or a viewport. In other embodiments, the one to one control allows for a visualgauge to determine penetration depth of the needle. In some embodiments,the one to one mechanical control comprises adjustable mechanicalneedle/catheter stopper. In some embodiments, the user may not stopneedle insertion by manually withdrawing the control mechanism. In someembodiments, the user controls the insertion using electrical switchesin a one to one motion. The electrical switches can be scaled up orscaled down to adjust the speed of needle insertion. In someembodiments, the device comprises an abort control mechanism thatimmediately retracts the needle.

The insertion device can comprise a force detector to determine theopposing force acting upon the needle from tissue being pierced. Theforce acting upon the needle may change depending on the density of thepierced tissue. This change in detected force may be used to determinethe type of the subdermal tissue layer the needle is in and may aid inidentifying when the needle enters the lumen of a vessel.

In some embodiments, the device contains a method of detecting requiredforce for penetration of the needle through its given medium. In someembodiments, the force is determined from a pressure transducer. Inother embodiments, the force is determined from motor drive current. Inother embodiments, force is detected using a strain gauge. In yet otherembodiments, the force is calculated in any combination thereof.

Needle Stage

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a needle stage toposition the needle holder in preparation for the needle insertion. Theneedle stage may comprise a series of actuators around a specificcoordinate system in order to obtain the required degrees of freedom forinsertion. The coordinate system can require at least two, three, four,or five degrees of freedom that can allow the needle to puncture theskin at the required orientation for an intravenous insertion, withpositional feedback from the ultrasound. The needle stage can thenreduce the angle between needle and the vein's central axis, whilemaintaining the needle tip position within the lumen using reversekinematics equations. The needle stage can further allow the needle tobe advanced along the length of the lumen of the vein while maintaininga central position within the lumen.

Error! Reference source not found.3 shows the needle stage 303 and thecomponents used for the rotation and height adjustment of the needleholder and/or the cartridge. In some embodiments, the rotation andadjustment mechanisms are based around a Cartesian coordinate system. Inother embodiments, the mechanisms are based around a polar coordinatesystem. In some embodiments, the mechanisms are based around four-barlinkage mechanisms. In some embodiments, the mechanisms are based on agimbal type mechanism. In other embodiments, the mechanisms are based onany combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the needle holder operatively connected to needlestage 303 is positioned using linear actuators 300. In otherembodiments, the needle holder is positioned using stepper motors. Insome embodiments, the needle holder is positioned using a stepper motorin combination with a lead screw. In other embodiments, the needleholder is positioned using servo motors 306. In other embodiments, theneedle holder is positioned using a DC motor with an encoder. In otherembodiments, the needle holder is positioned using a piezoelectricactuator. In other embodiments, the needle holder is positioned based onany combination thereof.

In some embodiments the needle stage 303 is coupled to the actuatorsusing a series of spur, helical or worm gears. In other embodiments, theneedle stage 303 mechanisms comprises a series of belts used to couplethe actuators to the needle holder. In other embodiments, the needlestage is coupled to the actuators using a series of spur, helical orworm gears. In other embodiments, the needle stage is directly coupledto the shaft of the motors using a motor coupler. In other embodiments,the needle stage is coupled to the actuators using a series of cables.In other embodiments, the actuators are coupled to the needle holderbased on any combination thereof.

In some embodiments the needle stage 303 comprises mechanical stoppers304 to prevent the needle holder from moving beyond its intended rangeof motion. In some embodiments, the stoppers comprise electrical limitswitches. In other embodiments, the stoppers comprise optical flags. Inother embodiments, the stoppers are operatively connected to a drivemechanism. In some embodiments, the stopper is manually set by a user.In some embodiments, the stoppers are set by the manufacturer. In someembodiments, different stoppers can be used depending on the type ofcartridge installed into the device. In other embodiments, the stoppersare any combination thereof.

The needle stage can be driven by a combination of prismatic and rotaryactuators/joints. Each combination can create a three degrees of freedom(DOF) system capable of successfully creating the required insertionpath based on actuator output and target anatomy location. Examples ofthe possible combination of actuators are given in Table 1. Beyond thesimple three DOF systems, other mechanical mechanisms can takeadditional forms including: 4 bar linkages, alternative Cartesiansystems, and hexapod actuators.

TABLE 1 3 DOF Mechanism Combinations Needle Stage First Joint SecondJoint Third Joint Rotary Rotary Rotary Rotary Rotary Prismatic RotaryPrismatic Rotary Prismatic Rotary Rotary Rotary Prismatic PrismaticPrismatic Rotary Prismatic Prismatic Prismatic Rotary

The three DOF system can comprise three mechanical joints. In someembodiments, the first, second, and third joints can be rotary R1,prismatic P2, and rotary R3, respectively (FIG. 17A). In anotherembodiment, the first, second, and third joints can be prismatic P1,rotary R2, and prismatic P3, respectively (FIG. 17B). In certainembodiments, the first, second, and third joints (R1, R2, and R3) can beall rotaries (FIG. 17C). In yet another embodiment, the first, second,and third joints can be prismatic P1, prismatic P2, rotary R3 (FIG.17D). The first, second, and third joints can be rotary R1, rotary R2,and prismatic P3, respectively (FIG. 17E).

Prior to the needle insertion, the needle stage may be calibrated forthe needle position with respect to the needle stage. The calibrationprocess can be manual or automatic. An automatic calibration may involvean initial homing routine for the stage and the cartridge afterinstalling the cartridge in the insertion device. The calibration candefine the position of the needle tip prior to each insertion forreliability and safety of the device.

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the needle stage and themechanisms involved for homing the devices position. In someembodiments, the needle stage homing mechanism 302 calibrates itsposition to a reference frame using magnetic hall effect sensors. Inother embodiments, the sensors are optical switches. In otherembodiments, the sensors are mechanical limit switches. In someembodiments, the sensors can be combination of optical switches andmechanical limit switches. In some embodiments, the device is calibratedat the factory. In some embodiments, the device performs a calibrationroutine prior to each insertion.

In some embodiments, the needle stage 303 couples directly to the needledrive assembly by fasteners 309 (FIG. 14). In other embodiments, theneedle stage and the needle drive assembly are built on the same body.In some embodiments, the position of the needle drive assembly iscalibrated prior to insertion using the tip of the needle and a limitswitch. In other embodiments, the position of the assembly is calibratedusing a hall-effect sensor. In some embodiments, the tip of the needleis detected using the ultrasound internal to the device.

The needle stage may be calibrated to match the position of the needleand/or needle stage with respect to the ultrasound probe and in thecorresponding image. A calibration can be done between the needle stageand the ultrasound to quantify the offset between the needle tip and theultrasound plane. Prior to the needle insertion, the offset can bedefined with reference to a physical point on the device.

To ensure a safe needle insertion, the needle stage may comprise one ormore false insertion sensors to detect unacceptable levels of shock orvibration, either during or outside an insertion procedure.

In some embodiments, the device comprises false insertion sensors todetect shock or vibration above or below certain thresholds. Theinsertion procedure can be aborted when the shock or vibration reachesunacceptable levels to avoid false insertion, i.e. insertion intounintended target. In some embodiments, the false insertion sensors cancontinuously to detect any drop or impact that may affect the device'sperformance.

Vacuum Connection

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a vacuum connection.In some embodiments, the vacuum connection is located within thehousing. In some embodiments, the vacuum connection comprises a vacuumconnector. In some embodiments, the vacuum connection comprises a vacuumsource. In some embodiments, the vacuum connection is operativelyattached to the cartridge. In some embodiments, the vacuum connector isoperatively attached to the cartridge. In some embodiments, the vacuumconnection and the vacuum connector are operatively attached to thecartridge. In some embodiments, the vacuum connector is in vacuumcommunication with a vacuum source. In some embodiments, the vacuumsource is configured to draw air through the needle holder opening. Insome embodiments, the vacuum source is configured to draw air throughthe bottom surface of the cartridge.

In some embodiments, the cartridge 234 comprises a suction area 210. Insome embodiments, the suction area 210 is the entire base of thecartridge. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the shape of the suctionarea 210 is a shape that serves to increase the likelihood of successfulcannulation of the target tissue. For example, in some embodiments, thesuction area 210 is a linear area of suction on the distal end of theinsertion device (e.g., of the cartridge) that causes a tourniquet-likeaction on underlying tissue and vessels, thereby distending the portionof a lumen of one or more blood vessels in the target tissue.

In some embodiments, the suction is created by a vacuum source withinthe insertion device itself. In some embodiments, the vacuum source is avacuum motor. In some embodiments, the vacuum motor creates a vacuumbetween the insertion device and a flexible portion of the cartridge,thereby creating a vacuum between the cartridge and the surface of theskin of the patient. In some embodiments, the suction is created by apneumatic manipulation of the insertion device on a flexible portion ofthe cartridge (i.e., the vacuum button and/or the vacuum bulb describedelsewhere herein). In some embodiments, the suction is created by apneumatic manipulation of one or more one-way suction valves, therebycreating a vacuum between the cartridge and the surface of the skin ofthe patient.

In some embodiments, the suction is created by mechanical manipulationof the insertion device on the cartridge by a plurality of one-wayvalves and bulbs. In some embodiments, the plurality of one-way valvesand bulbs transmit a force on interconnected flexible portions of thecartridge base, such that a vacuum action is created under thecartridge. In some embodiments, the suction is created by mechanicalmanipulation directly on the cartridge by the user. For example, in someembodiments, the user mechanically manipulates a bulb connected to oneor more one-way valves, thereby creating a vacuum transmitted directlyto the surface of the skin of the patient. Alternatively, in someembodiments, the vacuum is transmitted to the flexible portion of thecartridge, thereby creating a vacuum between the cartridge and thesurface of the skin of the patient.

In some embodiments, the shape of the suction area is changed and/oradjusted during the course of an insertion procedure, such that itmaximizes that success of the procedure (e.g., targeting the targettissue location). In some embodiments, the intensity of the suction ischanged and/or adjusted during the course of an insertion procedure,such that it maximizes that success of the procedure (e.g., targetingthe target tissue location).

In some embodiments, a suction device is connected to the cartridge. Insome embodiments, the suction device is located externally with respectto the insertion device and the cartridge. In some embodiments, thesuction device is used to create a vacuum for a medical procedure (e.g.,a needle insertion). In some embodiments, the suction is created bymechanical manipulation of the suction device on the cartridge. Forexample, in some embodiments, the cartridge comprises flexiblecomponents that are integrated with rigid components that are pulled, inorder to create a suction cup-like action. In some embodiments, thecartridge comprises the suction device. In some embodiments, having thesuction device located within the cartridge (as opposed to having thesuction device located within the housing of the insertion device)prevents and/or ameliorates the risk of a potential contamination of theinsertion device (e.g., accidental suction of blood from the surface ofthe skin and into the insertion device). Furthermore, in someembodiments, the insertion device comprises an actuator that activatesthe suction device (e.g., depresses the vacuum button and/or vacuumbulb). In some embodiments, the actuator comprises a barrier (e.g., acasing) that protects it from a potential contamination (e.g., a bloodcontamination). In some embodiments, the automatic activation of thesuction device by the actuator prevents and/or decreases the risk ofuser error when activating the suction device (e.g., the user notdeactivating suction when blood is present on the surface of the skin).In some embodiments, the automatic activation of the suction device bythe actuator prevents and/or decreases the risk of a potentialcontamination of the insertion device (e.g., a blood contamination)caused by user error.

Power Source

In some embodiments, the vacuum-assisted insertion device comprises apower source. In some embodiments, the power source is configured topower the ultrasound probe. In some embodiments, the power source isconfigured to power a vacuum source. In some embodiments, the powersource is configured to power the display and/or electronics of theinsertion device.

In some embodiments, the insertion device is portable. In someembodiments, the portable insertion device is powered by a battery. Insome embodiments, the power source is a battery. In some embodiments,the battery is a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the batteryis a removable battery. In some embodiments, the battery is an internalbattery. In some embodiments, the battery is a non-removable battery.Non-limiting examples of a battery include a nickel cadmium (NiCd)battery, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery, a nickel zinc (NiZn)battery, a lead acid battery, a lithium ion battery (Li-ion), or alithium ion polymer (Li-ion polymer) battery. In some embodiments, thepower source comprises a capacitor. In some embodiments, the powersource is connected to the insertion device by a cable. In someembodiments, the power source comprises a power supply. In someembodiments, the power supply adjusts and regulates the power receivedfrom the power source. In some embodiments, the power supply provideselectricity to the insertion device. In some embodiments, the powersupply outputs a voltage to the insertion device. In some embodiments,the power supply regulates an output voltage.

Needle Types

In some embodiments, the medical device being introduced by theinsertion device is a needle. In some embodiments, the needle is anintroducer needle, a biopsy needle, or a needle trocar. In someembodiments, the needle comprises a catheter and/or a guidewire. In someembodiments, the catheter is a peripherally inserted central catheter(PICC). In some embodiments, the devices and systems disclosed hereinfacilitate the insertion of a peripherally inserted central catheter. Insome embodiments, the catheter is a percutaneous indwelling centralcatheter. In some embodiments, the devices and systems disclosed hereinfacilitate the insertion of a percutaneous indwelling central catheter.In some embodiments, the catheter is a peripherally inserted centralcatheter, a central venous catheter, a urinary catheter, an arterialcatheter, a venous catheter, a tunneled catheter, a port catheter, or anon-tunneled central catheter. In some embodiments, the needle is awinged steel or butterfly needle. In some embodiments, the needlecomprises a syringe. In some embodiments, the needle is a single-use,hypodermic needle. In some embodiments, the needle is in fluidconnection with a collection tube. In some embodiments, the collectiontube is an evacuated tube. In some embodiments, the collection tube is ablood collection tube. In some embodiments, the collection tube is avacutainer blood collection tube. In some embodiments, the needle is inflow communication with a fluid injection line. In some embodiments, theneedle is a 6-gauge needle, an 8-gauge needle, a 13-gauge needle, a15-gauge needle, a 17-gauge needle, an 18-gauge needle, a 19-gaugeneedle, a 20-gauge needle, a 21-gauge needle, a 22-gauge needle, a23-gauge needle, a 24-gauge needle, a 25-gauge needle, a 26-gaugeneedle, a 27-gauge needle, a 28-gauge needle, a 29-gauge needle, a30-gauge needle, a 31-gauge needle, or a 32-gauge needle. In someembodiments, the needle is a needle ranging between about 1 to about 10inches in length. In some embodiments, the needle contains a stylet,also known as an obturator or an introducer, which is a fine wire, aslender probe, or a solid rod with a metal hub fitted to match a bevelof a needle.

Needle Insertion Methods

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods for introducing aneedle into a target tissue in an individual in need thereof using theinsertion device. In some embodiments, the insertion device isconfigured to generate and/or transmit one or more imaging modalitiesand comprises medical instrumentation that is remotely manipulated by auser. In some embodiments, the insertion device is configured togenerate and/or transmit one or more imaging modalities and comprisesmedical instrumentation that is not remotely manipulated by a user.

In some embodiments, the user selects the cartridge that is applicableto the medical procedure that will be carried out (e.g., one of thecartridges shown in FIG. 5). In some embodiments, first, the methodcomprises securing the cartridge to the cartridge receiver. In someembodiments, the user mechanically secures the cartridge 134 to thecartridge receiver 118. In some embodiments, the user uses a snap-onmechanism to attach the cartridge 134 to the cartridge receiver 118. Insome embodiments, the method comprises using a reversible attachmentmechanism to allow for temporary attachment of the cartridge 134 to thecartridge receiver 118. In some embodiments, the method comprisessecuring the cartridge 134 to the cartridge receiver 118 using aprong-attachment system. In some embodiments, the method comprisessecuring the cartridge 134 to the cartridge receiver 118 by using one ormore chemicals. In some embodiments, the one or more chemical meanscomprise one or more chemicals that allow for adhesion (e.g., anadhesive). In some embodiments, the method comprises securing thecartridge 134 to the cartridge receiver 118 by using one or moremagnets.

Next, in some embodiments, the method comprises imaging the targettissue using the ultrasound probe and the infrared sensor by contactingthe surface of the skin of the individual with the bottom surface of thecartridge. In some embodiments, the user uses the ultrasound probe totarget the tissue. In some embodiments, the user activates the infraredsensor to target the tissue. In some embodiments, the user obtains anultrasound and/or infrared image by contacting the skin of theindividual with the bottom surface of the cartridge. In someembodiments, the user images the target tissue remotely.

Next, in some embodiments, the method comprises identifying the needleinsertion point on the display screen. In some embodiments, the useridentifies the needle insertion point via the indicator marking 128 onthe display screen. In some embodiments, the user actives a vacuumsource to create a negative pressure around the target tissue insertionarea at the surface of the skin of the patient. In some embodiments, thevacuum source provides tension within an area of suction. In someembodiments, a vacuum suction pump motor is activated to create suction.In some embodiments, the user activates a vacuum source via depressionof a physical button or activation of a switch on the insertion device.In some embodiments, the amount of negative pressure applied to thesurface of the skin of the patient is automatically regulated by theinsertion device. For example, in some embodiments, the insertion deviceoutputs the negative pressure applied on the display screen. In someembodiments, the computing device of the insertion device uses afeedback loop system to automatically regulate, activate, and/ordeactivate a vacuum source. In some embodiments, the vacuum suction pumpmotor exerts a pulling force against the skin of the individual. In someembodiments, the vacuum source replicates the physical tension typicallyand mechanically induced by a health care worker (e.g., by holding theskin of the patient taut and/or by using a tourniquet prior to insertionof a needle).

Next, in some embodiments, the method comprises adjusting the needleholder angle and moving the needle longitudinally, through the cartridgeinlet, thereby introducing the needle at the needle insertion point andinto the target tissue. In some embodiments, adjusting the needle holderangle and moving the needle longitudinally are manually actuated. Insome embodiments, adjusting the needle holder angle and moving theneedle longitudinally are remotely actuated. In some embodiments,adjusting the needle holder angle and moving the needle longitudinallyare automatically actuated by the computing device. In some embodiments,the method comprises administering a therapeutic agent using the needle.In some embodiments, the method comprises collecting a biopsy sampleusing the needle. In some embodiments, the method comprises inserting aguidewire into the target tissue. In some embodiments, the methodcomprises retracting the guidewire from the target tissue. In someembodiments, the method comprises inserting the catheter into the targettissue. In some embodiments, the method comprises retracting thecatheter from the target tissue.

In some embodiments, the user implements the user interface to adjustthe longitudinal location of the needle. In some embodiments, the userimplements the user interface to adjust the needle holder angle via anangle actuator. In some embodiments, the user interface (e.g., thedisplay screen, the gear wheel, or the positioning dial) of theinsertion device is used to adjust the longitudinal location of theneedle and/or the needle holder angle. In some embodiments, the userinitially adjusts the longitudinal location via the user interface. Insome embodiments, the user proceeds by adjusting the angle of theneedle. In some embodiments, the user introduces the needle at theselected insertion point and into the target tissue. In someembodiments, the user inserts the needle into the selected tissue viathe needle insertion button. In some embodiments, the user uses adigital selection method via the display screen to adjust the location,angle, and/or position of the needle. In some embodiments, the needle isguided and/or inserted into the target tissue via the vacuum-assistedinsertion system. For example, in some embodiments, the user turns onthe vacuum source in order to create vacuum between the insertion deviceand the cartridge, thereby creating a vacuum between the cartridge andthe skin of the patient. In some embodiments, the suction is created bymechanical manipulation of the insertion device and the cartridge. Forexample, in some embodiments, the cartridge comprises flexible featuresintegrated with more rigid elements that when pulled away from thepatient, they create a suction cup-like action.

The method can further comprise adjusting the position of the needleholder with respect to the needle stage. The needle stage may comprise aseries of actuators around a specific coordinate system in order toobtain the required degrees of freedom for insertion. The coordinatesystem can require at least two, three, four, or five degrees of freedomthat can allow the needle to puncture the skin at the requiredorientation for an intravenous insertion, with positional feedback fromthe ultrasound. The needle stage can then reduce the angle betweenneedle and the vein's central axis, while maintaining the needle tipposition within the lumen using reverse kinematics equations. The needlestage can further allow the needle to be advanced along the length ofthe lumen of the vein while maintaining a central position within thelumen.

In some embodiment, it may be possible that the force applied on theneedle results in deflection of the needle tip off its central axisduring the insertion. A longitudinal ultrasound scan can allow theneedle deflection to be visually recognized and insertion path adjustedin real time either automatically or manually.

In some embodiments, the needle insertion system can visually interpretin real-time the current position and deflection of the needle tip usinga combination of longitudinal and transverse ultrasound scans. In someembodiments, the interpretation is used to compensate error in theinsertion position. In some embodiment, the interpretation is used as avisual indicator for the operator, allowing them to adjust the needle.In other embodiments, the interpretation is used in any combinationthereof.

In some embodiments, the imaging stage can be used to manipulate theposition of the ultrasound probe and the infrared sensor with respect tothe housing. During insertion and once the tip of the needle has enteredthe vessel lumen, the user may adjust the imaging stage to move theultrasound probe and the infrared sensor to locate a second target. Thesecond target may be an advanced section along the length of a vessellumen. The needle stage can be adjusted to allow the needle to move tothe advanced section while maintaining a central position within thelumen. The needle can be pivoted co-axially with the vessel and cansubsequently release the catheter. To minimize the risk of tearing theouter wall of the vessel during the pivoting process, the insertionsystem can create a virtual pivot point at or around the intersection ofthe vessel wall and the needle. In another embodiment, the needle can bepivoted about the needle tip. In some embodiments, the device caninterpret the ultrasound image to create a virtual pivot point at oraround the intersection of the vein wall (tunica externa) and the needlebody in order to minimize the risk of tearing the tunica externa duringthe insertion process.

Disclosed herein, in some embodiments, are methods of sampling venousblood using the insertion device. In some embodiments, the methodcomprises securing the cartridge to the cartridge receiver. In someembodiments, the step of securing the cartridge to the cartridgereceiver comprises a snap-on mechanism. In some embodiments, the step ofsecuring the cartridge to the cartridge receiver comprises a reversibleattachment mechanism. In some embodiments, the step of securing thecartridge to the cartridge receiver comprises a prong-attachmentmechanism. In some embodiments, the step of securing the cartridge tothe cartridge receiver comprises chemical adhesion.

Next, in some embodiments, the method comprises securing an evacuatedcollection tube to the cartridge receiver. In some embodiments, the userthreads the collection tube through the port and into insertion device.In some embodiments, the tube is previously attached to the needle andrequires no additional insertion steps by the user. Next, in someembodiments, the method comprises imaging a blood vessel using theultrasound probe and the infrared sensor by contacting the skin of theindividual with the bottom surface of the cartridge. In someembodiments, the user is guided by the ultrasound and/or infrared imagesdisplayed on the display screen. In some embodiments, the ultrasoundand/or infrared images displayed on the display screen are displayed inreal time. In some embodiments, the image displayed on the displayscreen comprise an indicator line and/or an indicator marking thatindicates the target tissue location and/or the location of the needlein real time. Next, in some embodiments, the method comprisesidentifying the needle insertion point on the display screen. In someembodiments, the user identifies the needle insertion point via theindicator line and/or the indicator marking on the display screen. Insome embodiments, the user actives the vacuum source to draw air throughthe cartridge inlet. In some embodiments, the vacuum source providestension within the area of suction. In some embodiments, the vacuummotor is activated by the user. In some embodiments, the user activatesthe vacuum motor by depressing a physical button and/or activating aswitch on the interface of the insertion device. In some embodiments,the vacuum source is automatically activated by the computing device ofthe insertion device.

Next, in some embodiments, the method comprises adjusting the syringeholder angle and moving the needle longitudinally, through the cartridgeinlet, thereby introducing the needle at the needle insertion point andinto the blood vessel. Next, in some embodiments, the method comprisescollecting venous blood from the individual into the evacuatedcollection tube.

Described herein, in some embodiments, are methods for introducing acatheter into a target tissue in an individual in need thereof, usingthe insertion device. First, in some embodiments, the method comprisessecuring the cartridge to the cartridge receiver. Next, in someembodiments, the method comprises imaging the target tissue using theultrasound probe and the infrared sensor by contacting the surface ofthe skin of the individual with the bottom surface of the cartridge.Next, in some embodiments, the method comprises identifying the catheterinsertion point on the display screen. Next, in some embodiments, themethod comprises adjusting the syringe holder angle and moving thecatheter longitudinally, through the cartridge inlet, therebyintroducing the catheter at the catheter insertion point and into thetarget tissue.

Needle Insertion Algorithm

The needle insertion system can be used to determine the required needleinsertion path of during the insertion process. The designated insertionpath can be followed to place the needle and catheter within the lumenof the target vessel. The insertion path can be driven by an algorithmdeveloped for the insertion device.

In some embodiments, the needle insertion algorithm for the insertionsystem can be generalized in 3D space as a 6+ Degree Of Freedom (DOF)system.

The insertion system can operate under a designed needle tip path,defined as:

N=f( x,{right arrow over (n)})

-   -   Where: x is the needle tip position;    -   {right arrow over (n)} is the vector direction pointing        coaxially along the needle; and    -   Both x and {right arrow over (n)} are parametrized as x(S),        {right arrow over (n)}(S). S is defined as the % of path for a        given step.

The required needle path can be inputted into the insertion system bythe user and the inputs can be translated and relayed by the insertionsystem to an actuator space defined as:

U=(A,B,C,D, . . . )

In the given actuator space, user inputs can set the jointposition/velocities through reverse kinematics. The operating principlefor the insertion system can be a rigid body assumption as:

The needle insertion algorithm can provide detailed steps of the needlepath starting from the docked position. FIG. 18 illustrates the needlein the docked position. A and B are actuators that can drive the needle.The detailed steps can include mathematical equations and structuresinvolved in the process. The equations disclosed herein can be adapteddepending on the required input into the actuators.

In some embodiments, the needle docked position can be defined as below:

T(X _(d) ,Y _(d),θ_(d))=Tip Docked Position

T(X _(d) ,Y _(d),θ_(d))=Tip Docked Position

The ultrasound plane can be centered over V(X, Y, Z), where: Y=VesselDepth. The origin may be defined at the ultrasound probe head. For 2Dproblem, Z can be equal to 0.

Stage 1: Horizontal Needle Tip Positioning

In the first stage, the needle tip position can be adjusted along thex-axis. In some embodiments, the needle tip is positioned such that whenit rotates to the insertion angle, the needle body is lined up with thetarget vessel position V.

The needle tip can be adjusted via actuator B along the x-axis by agiven displacement X as shown in Error! Reference source not found. FIG.19B shows the movement of the needle for horizontal needle tipadjustment. The required position of X can be defined by the followingequation and insertion angle.

$\frac{V_{y} + Y_{d}}{X_{d} + X} = {\tan\;\theta_{I}}$θ_(I) = Insertion  Angle  ( ∼ 30^(∘))

-   -   Where: V_(y) is the vertical distance from the Ultrasound Probe        head to the target vessel;    -   Y_(d) is the vertical distance from the needle tip to the        Ultrasound Probe head; and    -   X_(d) is the starting positon of the needle tip along the X        axis.

The insertion angle can be determined by the insertion parameters set bythe user or defined by the insertion device. The required movementdistance of actuator B can be defined as X given the equation:

$X = {\frac{V_{y} + Y_{d}}{\tan\;\theta_{I}} - X_{d}}$

Stage 2: Needle Rotation about Tip to Insertion Angle

In stage two, the needle can be rotated about the needle tip to reachthe insertion angle θ_(l) defined by the user or the insertion system.

Each actuator can be adjusted in actuator space U (A, B C) to rotate theneedle (FIG. 19C), given the following equations as a function of needletip position θ, X, Y.

C(θ,X,Y)=θ

B(θ,X,Y)=B _(∘) +L _(c) sin θ−L _(N) cos θ

A(θ,X,Y)=A _(∘) +L _(c) cos θ−L _(N) sin θ

-   -   Where: B_(∘) is the starting position of the B actuator during        stage 2;    -   A_(∘) is the starting point of the A actuator during stage 2;    -   L_(c) is the length of the arm of actuator C (centerline of        needle to center of rotation for C); and    -   L_(N) is the length of the needle.

Stage 3: Inserting Needle to Vein

In stage three, the needle can be inserted by an insertion distancedefined by the parameter S. The needle tip can start at position 0 andend at position S when the needle tip is inside the target vessel (FIG.19D).

The value of S can be defined as:

S=√{square root over ((V _(y) +Y _(d))²+(V _(x) −X _(d))²)}

-   -   Where: V_(y) is the vertical distance from the Ultrasound Probe        head to the target vessel.        -   Y_(d) is the vertical distance from the needle tip to the            Ultrasound Probe head.        -   X_(d) is the horizontal position of the needle tip from the            Ultrasound Probe head.        -   V_(x) is the horizontal position of the vessel from the            Ultrasound Probe head.

Given S, the actuator space equations for actuator A and B can bedefined as below:

B(θ,X,Y)=S*cos θ+X ₁

C(θ,X,Y)=−S*sin θ+Y ₁

As the needle insertion goes from 0→S, actuator C can remain at θ_(l).

Stage 4: Needle Lowered from Insertion Angle

In stage four, the needle can be rotated by the needle tip to lower itsinsertion angle to some defined angle (θ_(v)) for advancing into thelumen. The equations for rotations to θ_(v) can be the same as in stagetwo.

For stage four, the value of angle θ_(v) can depend on the patient'sanatomy. It may not be possible to achieve a θ_(v)=0, rather θ_(v) maybe θ_(v)>0.

C=θ _(v)<θ_(l) && θ_(v)>0

B(θ,X,Y)=B _(∘) +L _(c) sin θ−L _(N) cos θ+X _(f)

A(θ,X,Y)=A _(∘) +L _(c) cos θ−L _(N) sin θ+Y _(f)

Y _(f) =−ΔY _(d)

One likely phenomenon the needle could experience is the fenceposteffect. When trying to pivot the needle about the needle tip within anelastic medium (human tissue), the needle can experience a bendingmoment somewhere between the needle tip and the base of the needle. Thebending moment may result in a deflection of the needle body, causingthe needle tip to drift from the vessel center. A solution to thefencepost effect can include some adjustment of Y_f to account for thedrift in needle tip position along the Y axis. There may also be someadjustment required in the X axis due to the fencepost effect defined asX_f.

Y_(f) or X_(f) would be applied manually by an operator or automaticallythrough detection of the needle tip using ultrasound.

Stage 5: Advancing Needle into Lumen

In stage five, the needle is advanced along the lumen of the vessel. Theneedle can be advanced along the centerline of the vessel defined as V(FIG. 19E). V can be calculated using a sweep of the ultrasound when thedevice is placed, or in real time by the user during advancement of theneedle.

Needle Insertion Systems

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are insertion systems forinserting a needle into a target tissue in an individual in needthereof. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a systemfor needle insertion and/or needle placement into a target tissue in anindividual in need thereof. In some embodiments, the system comprisesany of the devices for needle insertion and/or placement disclosedherein.

In some embodiments, the insertion system comprises an insertion device.In some embodiments, the insertion system comprises any of theembodiments of the insertion device and/or related parts disclosedherein. In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a housing.In some embodiments, the housing comprises an ultrasound transducerconfigured to emit and receive an ultrasound wave. In some embodiments,the insertion device comprises a cartridge receiver comprising aplurality of first connectors. In some embodiments, the insertion devicecomprises a cartridge having a top surface, a bottom surface, a proximalend, and a distal end. In some embodiments, the cartridge is configuredto be coupled to the cartridge receiver. In some embodiments, thecartridge comprises a plurality of second connectors located on the topsurface of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the plurality of secondconnectors is configured to form an electrical connection with theplurality of first connectors of the cartridge receiver.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a plate having aplanar surface and a thickness configured to allow the ultrasound waveto pass therethrough. In some embodiments, the insertion devicecomprises a syringe holder. In some embodiments, the needle holdercomprises an interior having a proximal end and distal end and a tracktherebetween. In some embodiments, the track has track walls configuredto guide the needle. In some embodiments, the needle holder comprises aneedle connector configured to couple the needle to a plurality ofactuators. In some embodiments, the needle holder comprises a needleholder opening located at the distal end of the needle holder. In someembodiments, the needle holder comprises a port located at the proximalend of the needle holder. In some embodiments, the needle exits throughthe needle holder opening.

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises an infrared sensorconfigured to emit and receive an infrared radiation. In someembodiments, the insertion device comprises a display screen operativelycoupled to the ultrasound transducer and the infrared sensor.

Display Screen

In some embodiments, the insertion device comprises a display screen.Alternatively, in other embodiments, the insertion device does notcomprise a display screen. In some embodiments, the display screen isconfigured to display an ultrasound image and an infrared image of thetarget tissue location, the needle, and a needle insertion point. Insome embodiments, the imaging devices comprise a display screenoperatively coupled to the ultrasound transducer and the infraredsensor. In some embodiments, the display screen is configured to displayan ultrasound image and an infrared image of the target tissue. In someembodiments, the display screen is operatively coupled to an ultrasoundtransducer. In some embodiments, the display screen is configured todisplay an ultrasound image of the target tissue location in theindividual in need thereof. In some embodiments, the display screen isconfigured to display a needle. In some embodiments, the display screenis configured to display a needle insertion point.

In some embodiments, the display screen displays an ultrasound image ofthe target tissue location in the individual in need thereof, in realtime. In some embodiments, the display screen displays the needle inreal time. In some embodiments, the display screen displays a needleinsertion point in real time. In some embodiments, the system comprisesa user interface operatively coupled to the computing device. In someembodiments, the display screen is a user interface. In someembodiments, the user interface comprises a touch screen and/or aplurality of buttons to control various functions of the vacuum-assistedinsertion system.

In some embodiments, the display screen displays a virtual needle pointduring needle insertion. Once the tip of the needle enters the lumen ofa vessel, the needle can be pivoted co-axially with the vessel. Thecatheter can be subsequently released from the needle. To minimize therisk of tearing the outer wall of the vessel during the pivotingprocess, the insertion system can provide a virtual pivot point at oraround the intersection of the vessel wall and the needle. In anotherembodiment, the needle can be pivoted about the needle tip.

In some embodiments, the display screen is a computer screen, a mobiledevice screen, or a portable device screen. In some embodiments, thedisplay screen is a cathode ray tube (CRT). In some embodiments, thedisplay screen is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In furtherembodiments, the display screen is a thin film transistor liquid crystaldisplay (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display screen is an organiclight emitting diode (OLED) display. In various further embodiments, anOLED display is a passive-matrix OLED (PMOLED) or active-matrix OLED(AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the display screen is a plasmadisplay. In other embodiments, the display screen is a video projector.In still further embodiments, the display screen is a combination ofdevices such as those disclosed herein.

Computing Device

In some embodiments, the insertion system comprises a computing device.In some embodiments, the computing device comprises a processoroperatively coupled to the ultrasound transducer. In some embodiments,the computing device comprises a processor operatively coupled to theinfrared sensor. In some embodiments, the computing device comprises aprocessor operatively coupled to the display screen. In someembodiments, the computing device comprises a processor operativelycoupled to the plurality of actuators.

In some embodiments, the computing device comprises a non-transitorycomputer readable storage medium with a computer program includinginstructions executable by the processor. In some embodiments, thenon-transitory computer readable storage medium is a memory. In someembodiments, the computer program causes the processor to: a) convertthe ultrasound wave emitted from the ultrasound transducer into theultrasound image and display the ultrasound image on the display screen,b) convert the infrared radiation emitted from the infrared sensor intothe infrared image and display the infrared image on the display screen,c) localize the target tissue, d) calculate the needle insertion pointinto the target tissue, and e) track the position of the tip of theneedle once the needle is inserted into the target tissue.

In some embodiments, the instructions that are executable by theprocessor cause the processor to localize the target tissue. In someembodiments, the instructions that are executable by the processor causethe processor to calculate the needle insertion point into the targettissue. In some embodiments, the instructions that are executable by theprocessor cause the processor to track the position of the tip of theneedle once the needle is inserted into the target tissue. In someembodiments, the instructions that are executable by the processor causethe processor to automatically adjust the position of the needle suchthat the needle is centered within the target tissue. In someembodiments, the instructions that are executable by the processor causethe processor to detect when the power source has a low charge and/or nocharge. In some embodiments, the instructions that are executable by theprocessor cause the processor to detect when the power source has beenrecharged and/or replaced.

Computer Control Systems

The present disclosure provides computer control systems that areprogrammed to implement methods of the disclosure. FIG. 12 shows acomputer system 1201 that is programmed or otherwise configured to, forexample, convert an ultrasound wave emitted from the ultrasoundtransducer into an ultrasound image; display the ultrasound image on adisplay screen, localize a target tissue, calculate a needle insertionpoint into a target tissue, track the position of a tip of a needle oncethe needle is inserted into a target tissue; and/or automatically adjustthe position of the needle such that the needle is centered within thetarget tissue. In some embodiments, the computer system 701 regulatesvarious aspects of needle insertion methods, needle placement methods,and systems of the present disclosure, such as, for example, calculatinga needle insertion point into a target tissue. In some embodiments, thecomputer system 1201 is an electronic device of a user or a computersystem that is remotely located with respect to the electronic device.In some embodiments, the electronic device is a mobile electronicdevice. In some embodiments, the computer system 1201 is an electronicdevice or a computer system that is located within the insertion device.

In some embodiments, the computer system 1201 includes a centralprocessing unit (CPU, also “processor” and “computer processor” herein)1205, which is a single core or multi core processor, or a plurality ofprocessors for parallel processing. In some embodiments, the computersystem 1201 also includes memory or memory location 1210 (e.g.,random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronicstorage unit 1215 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 1220 (e.g.,network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, andperipheral devices 1225, such as cache, other memory, data storageand/or electronic display adapters. In some embodiments, the memory1210, storage unit 1215, interface 1220 and peripheral devices 1225 arein communication with the CPU 1205 through a communication bus (solidlines), such as a motherboard. In some embodiments, the storage unit1215 is a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. Insome embodiments, the computer system 1201 is operatively coupled to acomputer network (“network”) 1230 with the aid of the communicationinterface 1220. In some embodiments, the network 1230 is the Internet,an internet and/or extranet, or an intranet and/or extranet that is incommunication with the Internet. In some embodiments, the network 1230is a telecommunication and/or data network. In some embodiments, thenetwork 1230 includes one or more computer servers, which enabledistributed computing, such as cloud computing. In some embodiments, thenetwork 1230, with the aid of the computer system 1201, implements apeer-to-peer network, which enables devices coupled to the computersystem 1201 to behave as a client or a server.

In some embodiments, the CPU 1205 executes a sequence ofmachine-readable instructions, which are embodied in a program orsoftware. In some embodiments, the instructions are stored in a memorylocation, such as the memory 1210. In some embodiments, the instructionsare directed to the CPU 1205, which subsequently program or otherwiseconfigure the CPU 1205 to implement methods of the present disclosure.Non-limiting examples of operations performed by the CPU 1205 includefetch, decode, execute, and writeback.

In some embodiments, the CPU 1205 is part of a circuit, such as anintegrated circuit. In some embodiments, one or more other components ofthe system 1201 are included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuitis an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

In some embodiments, the storage unit 1215 stores files, such asdrivers, libraries, and saved programs. In some embodiments, the storageunit 715 stores user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs. Insome embodiments, the computer system 1201 includes one or moreadditional data storage units that are external to the computer system701, such as located on a remote server that is in communication withthe computer system 1201 through an intranet or the Internet.

In some embodiments, the computer system 1201 communicates with one ormore remote computer systems through the network 1230. For instance, insome embodiments, the computer system 1201 communicates with a remotecomputer system of a user (e.g., a personal computer). Non-limitingexamples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g.,portable PC), slate or tablet PC's (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® GalaxyTab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enableddevice, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistants. In someembodiments, the user accesses the computer system 1201 via the network1230.

In some embodiments, methods as described herein are implemented by wayof machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on anelectronic storage location of the computer system 1201, such as, forexample, on the memory 1210 or electronic storage unit 1215. In someembodiments, the machine executable or machine readable code is providedin the form of software. In some embodiments, during use, the code isexecuted by the processor 1205. In some embodiments, the code isretrieved from the storage unit 1215 and stored on the memory 1210 forready access by the processor 1205. In some embodiments, the electronicstorage unit 1215 is precluded, and machine-executable instructions arestored on memory 1210.

In some embodiments, the code is pre-compiled and configured for usewith a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code, or iscompiled during runtime. In some embodiments, the code is supplied in aprogramming language that is selected to enable the code to execute in apre-compiled or as-compiled fashion.

In some embodiments, aspects of the systems and methods provided herein,such as the computer system 1201, are embodied in programming. In someembodiments, various aspects of the technology are thought of as“products” or “articles of manufacture” typically in the form of machine(or processor) executable code and/or associated data that is carried onor embodied in a type of machine readable medium. In some embodiments,machine-executable code is stored on an electronic storage unit, such asmemory (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory) or ahard disk. In some embodiments, “storage” type media includes any or allof the tangible memory of the computers, processors or the like, orassociated modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tapedrives, disk drives and the like, which provide non-transitory storageat any time for the software programming. In some embodiments, all orportions of the software are, at times, communicated through theInternet or various other telecommunication networks. In someembodiments, such communications, for example, enable loading of thesoftware from one computer or processor into another, for example, froma management server or host computer into the computer platform of anapplication server. Thus, another type of media that bears the softwareelements, in some embodiments, includes optical, electrical andelectromagnetic waves, such as used across physical interfaces betweenlocal devices, through wired and optical landline networks and overvarious air-links. In some embodiments, the physical elements that carrysuch waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links or the like,are also considered as media bearing the software. As used herein,unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible “storage” media, termssuch as computer or machine “readable medium” refer to any medium thatparticipates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

Hence, a machine readable medium, such as computer-executable code, insome embodiments, takes many forms, including but not limited to, atangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium, or a physicaltransmission medium. In some embodiments, non-volatile storage mediainclude, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as any of thestorage devices in any computer(s) or the like, such as are used toimplement the databases, etc. shown in the drawings. In someembodiments, volatile storage media include dynamic memory, such as mainmemory of such a computer platform. In some embodiments, tangibletransmission media include coaxial cables; copper wire and fiber optics,including the wires that comprise a bus within a computer system. Insome embodiments, carrier-wave transmission media take the form ofelectric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves such asthose generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) datacommunications. In some embodiments, common forms of computer-readablemedia therefore include, for example: a floppy disk, a flexible disk,hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD orDVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any otherphysical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, a PROM andEPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wavetransporting data or instructions, cables or links transporting such acarrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer readsprogramming code and/or data. In some embodiments, many of these formsof computer readable media are involved in carrying one or moresequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution.

In some embodiments, the computer system 1201 includes or is incommunication with an electronic display 1235 that comprises a userinterface (UI) 1240 for providing, for example, the display screen 1202of the insertion device. Examples of UI's include, without limitation, agraphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface.

In some embodiments, methods and systems of the present disclosure areimplemented by way of one or more algorithms. In some embodiments, analgorithm is implemented by way of software upon execution by thecentral processing unit 1205. In some embodiments, the algorithm, forexample, calculates a needle insertion point into a target tissue basedon an ultrasound image.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown anddescribed herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art thatsuch embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is not intendedthat the invention be limited by the specific examples provided withinthe specification. While the invention has been described with referenceto the aforementioned specification, the descriptions and illustrationsof the embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limitingsense. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur tothose skilled in the art without departing from the invention.Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the inventionare not limited to the specific depictions, configurations or relativeproportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditionsand variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to theembodiments of the invention described herein may be employed inpracticing the invention. It is therefore contemplated that theinvention shall also cover any such alternatives, modifications,variations or equivalents. It is intended that the following claimsdefine the scope of the invention and that methods and structures withinthe scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

EXAMPLES Example 1: Venous Blood Withdrawal Using an Insertion Device

A health care worker performs a venous blood withdrawal on a patientusing the insertion device described herein. The health care workerinserts the peripheral intravenous site and phlebotomy cartridge 174into the cartridge receiver of the insertion device. The health careworker inserts the collection tube into the port, which allows thecollection tube to be in fluid communication with the needle. The healthcare worker then presses the bottom surface of the cartridge onto theleft arm of the patient. With the sensor areas in place, the ultrasoundprobe and the infrared sensor generate an image of the blood vessels ofthe left arm of the patient. The ultrasound image and the infrared imageare shown as an overlay image and displayed on the display screen. Thehealth care worker adjusts the placement of the insertion device, guidedby the image displayed on the display screen, until she identifies themedian cubital vein in the antecubital fossa in the left arm of thepatient. The image displayed on the display screen also shows anindicator line and insertion indicator marking to allow foridentification of the needle insertion point. The health care workeractivates the vacuum motor by pressing the vacuum seal button on theinsertion device. Activation of the vacuum motor creates suction betweenthe insertion device and the surface of the skin of the patient in theneedle insertion region of the left arm of the patient. The health careworker adjusts the angle of the needle by using the gear wheel of theinsertion device. The health care worker adjusts the longitudinalposition of the needle by using the positioning dial of the insertiondevice. The health care worker inserts the needle at the proper point ofinsertion by depressing the needle insertion button of the insertiondevice. Once the needle is inserted into the patient, the insertiondevice displays the position of the needle in real time on the displayscreen. The health care worker ensures the needle enters the mediancubital vein and begins collecting venous blood into the collection tubeupon accessing the lumen of the vein. Once a sufficient venous bloodvolume is collected, the health care worker withdraws the needle bypressing the needle withdrawal button.

Example 2: Venous Injection Using an Insertion Device

A health care worker performs an injection on a patient using theinsertion device described herein. The health care worker inserts thecartridge into the cartridge receiver of the insertion device. Thehealth care worker then presses the cartridge onto the left arm of thepatient. With the sensor areas in place, the ultrasound probe and theinfrared sensor generate an image of the blood vessels of the left armof the patient. The ultrasound image and the infrared image are shown asan overlay image and displayed on the display screen. The health careworker adjusts the placement of the insertion device, guided by theimage displayed on the display screen, until she identifies the mediancubital vein in the antecubital fossa in the left arm of the patient.The image displayed on the display screen also shows an indicator lineand insertion indicator marking to allow for identification of theneedle insertion point. The health care worker activates the vacuummotor by pressing the vacuum seal button on the insertion device.Activation of the vacuum motor creates suction between the insertiondevice and the surface of the skin of the patient in the needleinsertion region of the left arm of the patient. The health care workeradjusts the angle and the position of the needle. The health care workerinserts the needle at the proper point of insertion by depressing theneedle insertion button of the insertion device. Once the needle isinserted into the patient, the insertion device displays the position ofthe needle in real time on the display screen. The health care workerensures the needle and catheter enters the median cubital vein. Once theneedle and the catheter enter the vein, the health care worker triggersreleasing mechanism to detach the catheter from the insertion device andwithdraw needle away from the vein by pressing withdrawal button. Amedication is infused through the catheter. Once a sufficient amount ofmedication is infused, the health care worker withdraws the catheter.Alternatively, the health care worker connects a syringe the needle andinjects medication through the needle without using the catheter.

Example 3: Lumbar Puncture Using an Insertion Device

A health care worker performs a biopsy on a patient using the insertiondevice described herein. The health care worker inserts the cartridgeinto the cartridge receiver of the insertion device. The health careworker inserts the collection tube into the port, which allows thecollection tube to be in fluid communication with the needle. The healthcare worker then presses the bottom surface of the cartridge into thespinal column of the patient. With the sensor areas in place, theultrasound probe and the infrared sensor generate an image of the spinalcolumn of the patient. The ultrasound image and the infrared image areshown as an overlay image and displayed on the display screen. Thehealth care worker adjusts the placement of the insertion device, guidedby the image displayed on the display screen, until she identifies aproper insertion site. The image displayed on the display screen alsoshows an indicator line and insertion indicator marking to allow foridentification of the needle insertion point. The health care workeractivates the vacuum motor by pressing the vacuum seal button on theinsertion device. Activation of the vacuum motor creates suction betweenthe insertion device and the surface of the skin of the patient in theneedle insertion region. The health care worker adjusts the angle of theneedle by using the gear wheel of the insertion device. The health careworker adjusts the longitudinal position of the needle by using thepositioning dial of the insertion device. The health care worker insertsthe needle at the proper point of insertion by depressing the needleinsertion button of the insertion device. Once the needle is insertedinto the patient, the insertion device displays the position of theneedle in real time on the display screen. The health care workerensures the needle enters the spinal cord and begins collectingcerebrospinal fluid into the collection tube upon accessing the cavityof the spinal cord. Once a sufficient cerebrospinal fluid is collected,the health care worker withdraws the needle by pressing the needlewithdrawal button.

Example 4: Abdominal Paracentesis Using an Insertion Device

The patient is placed in a supine position with lower extremitiescovered by a sheet and the arms preferably held above their head. Theuser assumes a position lateral to the left side of the patient'sabdomen. Then the area on the left lateral frontal aspect of the lowerabdomen, slightly inferior to the umbilicus at the lateral position inalignment with the anterior axillary line is broadly sterilized usingbetadine, chlorohexidine, or another fluid for sterilization. Thespecific cartridge intended for paracentesis procedures is removed fromits sterile packaging in sterile fashion and attached to the bottomsurface of the housing. The sensors on the housing which recognize thetype of cartridge attached send a signal to the onboard computer, andthe computer processes this information then sends a signal to controlthe ultrasound probe and displays screen to their standard initialpositions, and the ultrasound probe assumes a horizontal position withinthe device that is a set distance longitudinally from the proximal mostpossible ultrasound probe position within the housing and the displayedprobe depth is automatically adjusted to the preferred depth for theparacentesis procedure. The sterile sleeve connected to the cartridge isthen pulled over the entirety of the device by the user, such that thesleeve creates a sterile barrier between the user and all of thebuttons, handles, controls, and displays of the device. The user thenplaces the bottom of the device (which has the attached cartridge) onthe patient's left lower abdomen. The curvature of the bottom of thiscartridge is semi-circular such that the curve is oriented in thehorizontal direction. The user then moves the device about this area ofthe abdomen searching for the largest area of free fluid within theabdomen. When the area of maximum ascites is identified, the device isoriented such that the largest area of fluid coincides with the centervertical line on the display screen. The device's targeted vacuumsuction is then activated, such that there is a vacuum suction createdon the bottom the cartridge, effectively attaching the cartridge anddevice to the abdominal wall and distorting the soft tissue under thevacuum regions. While remaining attached to the abdomen, the usercontrols the prob position while the probe remains in horizontalorientation within the housing, the user does a longitudinal sweep withthe probe going both proximal to the initial position and then distalbefore returning the probe to the initial position. The user canactivate the doppler affect of the device before the sweep such thatvessels which may lie in the path of the needle can be identified andthe device detached and adjusted if necessary. The user may choose toselect the small needle, and target the tissue in the planned path forthe large needle, and inject lidocaine into this area. If theanticipated path of the needle appears safe, the user then adjusts thetarget location of the needle presented on the display screen of theneedle to an area within the free fluid just below the interior wall ofthe abdominal cavity. Once targeted, the needle advancement is triggeredby the user which sends a signal to the onboard computer. The signal iscomputed, and then an outgoing signal from the computer is sent to theactuators and needle position portions of the device to change theangle, position, and advancement of the needle so that the needle tipadvances in a chosen angle to the targeted location. If the user decidesto advance the needle further, the probe position can then be changed bythe user to a more distal location, and this process repeated one ormore times, such that the needle tip is advanced farther into theascites fluid. Once the needle tip is in a satisfactory location, theuser can attach tubing to the side port of the cartridge which isattached inside of the device to fluid tubing and the needle, and fluidcan be drawn out of the patient's abdomen using a syringe, vacuumbottle, wall suction or other device. Alternatively, the user may choosethe initial target of the large needle to be just superior to theinterior border of the abdominal wall, a small distance from that tissuelayer, then activate a safety needle within the lumen of the largeneedle to extend to a further target location, thereby piercing theinternal aspect of the abdominal wall without risking penetration into aloop of bowel or other intra-abdominal organ. Medication or fluids canbe injected into the abdominal fluid within the cavity. Alternatively,tubing can be connected to the external port of the cartridge, and fluidcan be drained. Another option for the user once the needle tip isadvanced to a satisfactory location, is that a catheter can be advancedover the needle into the abdominal fluid and exterior portion of thatcatheter attached to the exterior abdominal wall, and the user can pressthe end procedure button and the device can be removed.

Example 5: Knee Joint Injection Using an Insertion Device

The patient is placed in a supine position with the knee in a slightlyflexed position. The area on the front on the leg just proximal to thepatella is broadly sterilized using betadine, chlorohexidine, or anotherfluid for sterilization. The specific cartridge intended for kneeinjections is removed from its sterile packaging in sterile fashion andattached to the bottom surface of the housing. The sensors on thehousing which recognize the type of cartridge that has been attachedsends a signal to the onboard computer, and the computer processes thisinformation then sends a signal to control the ultrasound probe into itsstandard initial position, and the ultrasound probe assumes a horizontalposition within the device a set distance longitudinally from theproximal most possible ultrasound probe position within the housing. TheSterile sleeve connected to the cartridge is then pulled over theentirety of the device by the user, such that the sleeve creates asterile barrier between the user and all of the buttons, handles,controls, and displays of the device. The user then places the bottom ofthe device (which has the attached cartridge) on the patient's leg, justproximal to the patella. The curvature of the bottom of this cartridgeis semi-circular such that the curve is oriented in the same directionof curvature of the leg, with the curvature varying in the longitudinalplane and the ultrasound probe is in a parallel orientation relative tothe femur of the patient. The user then moves the device about the leg,such that the cartridge remains in contact with the leg, and thedisplayed image is viewed by the user, and the movement is stopped whenthe supra-patellar pouch is aligned with the center line of the image.While the device remains still on the patient, the ultrasound proberotation knob is then turned, such that the ultrasound probe is turned90 degrees relative to the housing, and then the probe and ultrasoundplane sits in a perpendicular plane relative to the femur andlongitudinal plane relative to the device. The position of the devicecan again be adjusted by the user at this time, so that the needletarget line is aimed at the supra-patellar pouch. The device's targetedvacuum suction is then activated, such that there is a vacuum suctioncreated on the bottom the cartridge, effectively attaching the cartridgeand device to the leg and distorting the soft tissue under the vacuumregions. While remaining attached to the leg, the user puts gentletraction on the device slightly distally down the leg and slightlylaterally relative to the leg, thereby effectively consolidating andpushing the suprapatellar fluid into a more concentrated position andmaking it easier to target with the needle. The needle path and distalend point is then selected using the controls targeting the centralfluid area within the suprapatellar pouch, and the needle advance buttonis pressed, which causes the needle within the cartridge to advance intothe patient's leg through the selected path and the needle advancementstops at the selected needle endpoint. The user can select a new targetendpoint and plane of entry within the knee, and the needle can beadvanced again by the user pressing the needle advancement button. Withthe needle tip well within the supra-patellar pouch, the port and flowtubing connected to the needle can be accessed, and fluid can be drawnout into a syringe, or a syringe containing liquid can be attached andused to inject that liquid into the knee. Fluid can be withdrawn fromthe pouch, liquid can be injected into the pouch, or both of these stepscan be taken with one or more syringes or tubes. The End or abort buttoncan be pressed by the user to withdrawal the needle, and the vacuumsuction can then be stopped can device released from the leg of thepatient.

Example 6: Thoracostomy Tube Placement Using an Insertion Device

The patient is placed in a supine position with lower extremitiescovered by a sheet and the arms preferably held above their head. Theuser assumes a position lateral to the left side of the patient's chestwall. At the left mid-axillary line and the 4th or 5th rib space, theskin is broadly sterilized using betadine, chlorohexidine, or anotherfluid for sterilization, and sterile drapes are placed on the patient.The specific cartridge intended for thoracostomy procedures is removedfrom its sterile packaging in sterile fashion and attached to the bottomsurface of the housing of the device. The shape of the thoracostomyprocedure cartridge has two portions to the bottom surface, with themore proximal portion angled distally and the more distal portion angleddistally at a steeper angle than the proximal portion. The more distalend of the cartridge contains an array of vacuum suction areas. Thesensors on the housing, which recognize the type of cartridge have beenattached, send a signal to the onboard computer, and the computerprocesses this information then sends a signal to control the ultrasoundprobe and display screen to their standard initial positions, and theultrasound probe assumes a longitudinal position within the device a setdistance longitudinally from the proximal most possible ultrasound probeposition within the housing and the displayed probe depth isautomatically adjusted to the preferred depth for the thoracostomyprocedure. The sterile sleeve connected to the cartridge is then pulledover the entirety of the device by the user, such that the sleevecreates a sterile barrier between the user and all of the buttons,handles, controls, and displays of the device. The user then places thedistal portion of the bottom of the cartridge on the left lateral chestwall at the 5th intercostal space in the mid-axillary line and orientsthe device to be perpendicular to the ribs. The user then moves thedevice about this area of the chest wall to identify an ideal positionof the device. Once identified, the user activates the vacuum suction,tightly adhering the cartridge and device in place on the chest wall.The device's targeted vacuum suction is then activated, such that thereis a vacuum suction created on the bottom the cartridge, effectivelyattaching the cartridge and device to the abdominal wall and distortingthe soft tissue under the vacuum regions thereby stabilizing the skinand tissue at the ultrasound probe location. While remaining attached tothe chest, the user sweeps the probe in the horizontal and longitudinaldirections. When the user has found a desirable target location, justsuperior to one of the ribs, the user selects and activates the smallneedle within the cartridge. The user then targets the area planned fortube insertion, and activates the insertion of the small needle to thisarea in a superficial position under the skin surface. The user thenselects the amount of lidocaine to dispense from the prefilled sterilecontainer within the cartridge and injects the medication. The user thenadvances the small needle repeating these steps and injects more dosesof the anesthetizing medication before selecting to withdraw the smallneedle using the controls on the device. The user then activates thelarge needle, and determines the most desirable path and target, withthe path coursing at an angle of approximately 80 degrees just superiorto the rib and target just within the plural cavity, controlling thesewith the device controllers. The user then activates the insertion ofthe long needle to that position. These steps can be repeated and theneedle further inserted. Once the needle is in satisfactory position,the user can choose on the device to then advance the thoracostomyguidewire that is preloaded in the cartridge, or advance a smallthoracostomy tube over the needle for an emergent or temporizingthoracic decompression. after the guidewire is advanced, the user canchoose to end the procedure by selecting and pressing the end button onthe device, which withdraws the needle to a locked position within thecartridge, releases the vacuum, and can release the guidewire from thecartridge. After which time the user can continue the tube thoracostomyprocedure using the Sledinger technique.

What is claimed is:
 1. An insertion device for inserting a needle into atarget tissue in an individual in need thereof, comprising: a housingcomprising: an ultrasound transducer configured to emit and receive anultrasound wave, and a cartridge receiver comprising a plurality offirst connectors; a cartridge having a top surface, a bottom surface, aproximal end, and a distal end, the cartridge configured to be coupledto the cartridge receiver, comprising: a plurality of second connectorslocated on the top surface of the cartridge, configured to form anelectrical connection with the plurality of first connectors of thecartridge receiver, a plate having a planar surface and a thicknessconfigured to allow the ultrasound wave to pass therethrough, and aneedle holder, comprising an interior having a proximal end and distalend a track therebetween, the track having track walls configured toguide the needle, a needle connector configured to couple the needle toa plurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at the distalend of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal end of theneedle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening.
 2. The insertion device of claim 1, wherein the target tissueis a blood vessel.
 3. The insertion device of claim 1, wherein thetarget tissue is a joint or a soft tissue.
 4. The insertion device ofclaim 3, wherein the soft tissue comprises a tendon, a ligament, fascia,a fibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, a nerve, a muscle, skin, or asynovial membrane.
 5. The insertion device of claim 1, wherein thetarget tissue is a calcified tissue.
 6. The insertion device of claim 5,wherein the calcified tissue is a bone.
 7. The insertion device of claim1, wherein the housing comprises at least one handle.
 8. The insertiondevice of claim 1, wherein the cartridge is reversibly coupled to thecartridge receiver.
 9. The insertion device of claim 1, wherein theplate is fixed relative to the cartridge receiver.
 10. The insertiondevice of claim 1, wherein the needle holder is movable angular-wise andmoves within the housing.
 11. The insertion device of claim 1, whereinthe needle holder is angled at a needle holder angle ranging betweenabout 0° to about 80°.
 12. The insertion device of claim 1, wherein theneedle is an introducer needle, a biopsy needle, or a needle trocar. 13.The insertion device of claim 1, wherein the needle comprises a catheterand/or a guidewire.
 14. The insertion device of claim 13, wherein thecatheter is a peripherally inserted central catheter, a central venouscatheter, a urinary catheter, an arterial catheter, a venous catheter, atunneled catheter, a port catheter, or a non-tunneled central catheter.15. The insertion device of claim 1, wherein the needle is in flowcommunication with a fluid injection line.
 16. The insertion device ofclaim 1, wherein the cartridge receiver comprises a frame having a railon either of its sides, the rail configured to secure the needle holder.17. The insertion device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of actuatorscomprises a spring actuator and an angle actuator.
 18. The insertiondevice of claim 17, wherein the spring actuator controls thelongitudinal movement of the needle.
 19. The insertion device of claim17, wherein the angle actuator controls the needle holder angle.
 20. Theinsertion device of claim 1, comprising a vacuum connection locatedwithin the housing, the vacuum connection comprising a vacuum connectoroperatively connected to the cartridge.
 21. The insertion device ofclaim 20, wherein the vacuum connector is in vacuum communication with avacuum source.
 22. The insertion device of claim 21, wherein the vacuumsource is configured to draw air through the needle holder opening. 23.The insertion device of claim 21, wherein the vacuum source isconfigured to draw air through the bottom surface of the cartridge. 24.The insertion device of claim 1, wherein the needle holder comprises aport lever or a collection tube configured to be received by the port.25. The insertion device of claim 24, wherein the port lever moveswithin a cartridge arc path as the needle holder is moved from oneselected position to another.
 26. The insertion device of claim 1,wherein the insertion device comprises a power source.
 27. The insertiondevice of claim 1, wherein the insertion device comprises a disposablesleeve configured for receiving the cartridge.
 28. The insertion deviceof claim 1, comprising an infrared sensor configured to emit and receivean infrared radiation.
 29. The insertion device of claim 28, wherein theinfrared sensor comprises an infrared radiation source.
 30. Theinsertion device of claim 29, wherein the infrared radiation source is alight emitting diode (LED) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED).31. The insertion device of claim 28, wherein the infrared sensorcomprises an infrared radiation detector.
 32. The insertion device ofclaim 31, wherein the infrared radiation detector is an infraredphotodetector or a temperature detector.
 33. The insertion device ofclaim 1, wherein the cartridge serves as a barrier between the cartridgeand the insertion device or between the insertion device and theindividual.
 34. An insertion system for inserting a needle into a targettissue in an individual in need thereof, comprising: a housing,comprising: an ultrasound transducer configured to emit and receive anultrasound wave, and a cartridge receiver comprising a plurality offirst connectors; a cartridge having a top surface, a bottom surface, aproximal end, and a distal end, configured to be coupled to thecartridge receiver, comprising: a plurality of second connectors locatedon the top surface of the cartridge, configured to form an electricalconnection with the plurality of first connectors of the cartridgereceiver, a plate having a planar surface and a thickness configured toallow the ultrasound wave to pass therethrough, and a needle holder,comprising an interior having a proximal end and distal end a tracktherebetween, the track having track walls configured to guide theneedle, a needle connector configured to couple the needle to aplurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at the distalend of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal end of theneedle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening; a display screen operatively coupled to the ultrasoundtransducer and the infrared sensor, the display screen configured todisplay an ultrasound image and an infrared image of the target tissuelocation, the needle, and a needle insertion point; and a computingdevice comprising a processor operatively coupled to the ultrasoundtransducer, the infrared sensor, the display screen, and the pluralityof actuators and a non-transitory computer readable storage medium witha computer program including instructions executable by the processorcausing the processor to: a) convert the ultrasound wave emitted fromthe ultrasound transducer into the ultrasound image and display theultrasound image on the display screen, b) convert the infraredradiation emitted from the infrared sensor into the infrared image anddisplay the infrared image on the display screen, c) localize the targettissue, d) calculate the needle insertion point into the target tissue,and e) track the position of the tip of the needle once the needle isinserted into the target tissue.
 35. The insertion system of claim 34,wherein the target tissue is a blood vessel.
 36. The insertion system ofclaim 34, wherein the target tissue is a joint or a soft tissue.
 37. Theinsertion system of claim 36, wherein the soft tissue comprises atendon, a ligament, fascia, a fibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, anerve, a muscle, skin, or a synovial membrane.
 38. The insertion systemof claim 34, wherein the target tissue is a calcified tissue.
 39. Theinsertion system of claim 38, wherein the calcified tissue is a bone.40. The insertion system of claim 34, wherein the housing comprises atleast one handle.
 41. The insertion system of claim 34, wherein thecartridge is reversibly coupled to the cartridge receiver.
 42. Theinsertion system of claim 34, wherein the plate is fixed relative to thecartridge receiver.
 43. The insertion system of claim 34, wherein theneedle holder is movable angular-wise and moves within the housing. 44.The insertion system of claim 34, wherein the needle holder is angled ata needle holder angle ranging between about 0° to about 80°.
 45. Theinsertion system of claim 34, wherein the needle is an introducerneedle, a biopsy needle, or a needle trocar.
 46. The insertion system ofclaim 34, wherein the needle comprises a catheter and/or a guidewire.47. The insertion system of claim 46, wherein the catheter is aperipherally inserted central catheter, a central venous catheter, aurinary catheter, an arterial catheter, a venous catheter, a tunneledcatheter, a port catheter, or a non-tunneled central catheter.
 48. Theinsertion system of claim 34, wherein the needle is in flowcommunication with a fluid injection line.
 49. The insertion system ofclaim 34, wherein the cartridge receiver comprises a frame having a railon either of its sides, the rail configured to secure the needle holder.50. The insertion system of claim 34, wherein the plurality of actuatorscomprises a spring actuator and an angle actuator.
 51. The insertionsystem of claim 50, wherein the spring actuator controls thelongitudinal movement of the needle.
 52. The insertion system of claim50, wherein the angle actuator controls the needle holder angle.
 53. Theinsertion system of claim 34, comprising a vacuum connection locatedwithin the housing, the vacuum connection comprising a vacuum connectoroperatively connected to the cartridge.
 54. The insertion system ofclaim 53, wherein the vacuum connector is in vacuum communication with avacuum source.
 55. The insertion system of claim 54, wherein the vacuumsource is configured to draw air through the needle holder opening. 56.The insertion system of claim 54, wherein the vacuum source isconfigured to draw air through the bottom surface of the cartridge. 57.The insertion system of claim 34, wherein the needle holder comprises aport lever or a collection tube configured to be received by the port.58. The insertion system of claim 57, wherein the port lever moveswithin a cartridge arc path as the needle holder is moved from oneselected position to another.
 59. The insertion system of claim 34,wherein the insertion system comprises a power source.
 60. The insertionsystem of claim 34, wherein the insertion system comprises a disposablesleeve configured for receiving the cartridge.
 61. The insertion systemof claim 34, wherein the insertion system comprises a power source. 62.The insertion system of claim 34, wherein the insertion system comprisesa disposable sleeve configured for receiving the cartridge.
 63. Theinsertion system of claim 34, wherein the display screen displays theultrasound image of the target tissue location in the individual in needthereof, the needle, and the needle insertion point in real time. 64.The insertion system of claim 34, wherein the insertion system comprisesa user interface operatively coupled to the computing device.
 65. Theinsertion system of claim 64, wherein the user interface comprises atouch screen and/or a plurality of buttons to control various functionsof the insertion system.
 66. The insertion system of claim 65, whereinthe various functions of the insertion system comprise: controlling thelongitudinal movement of the needle, controlling the needle holderangle, controlling the longitudinal movement of a catheter, enhancingthe focus of the ultrasound image, centering the ultrasound image,activating a vacuum motor, or any combination thereof.
 67. The insertionsystem of claim 34, comprising an infrared sensor configured to emit andreceive an infrared radiation.
 68. The insertion system of claim 67,wherein the infrared sensor comprises an infrared radiation source. 69.The insertion device of claim 68, wherein the infrared radiation sourceis a light emitting diode (LED) or an organic light emitting diode(OLED).
 70. The insertion device of claim 67, wherein the infraredsensor comprises an infrared radiation detector.
 71. The insertiondevice of claim 70, wherein the infrared radiation detector is aninfrared photodetector or a temperature detector.
 72. The insertiondevice of claim 34, wherein the instructions executable by the processorcause the processor to automatically adjust the position of the needlesuch that the needle is centered within the target tissue.
 73. Theinsertion device of claim 34, wherein the cartridge serves as a barrierbetween the cartridge and the insertion device or between the insertiondevice and the individual.
 74. A needle cartridge, comprising: a needle;a plate having a planar surface and a thickness configured to allow anultrasound wave to pass therethrough; a needle holder, comprising aninterior having a proximal end and a distal end and a tracktherebetween, the track having track walls configured to guide theneedle, a needle connector configured to couple the needle to aplurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at the distalend of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal end of theneedle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening.
 75. The needle cartridge of claim 74, wherein the needle holderis movable angular-wise and moves within the housing.
 76. The needlecartridge of claim 74, wherein the needle holder is angled at a needleholder angle ranging between about 0° to about 80°.
 77. The needlecartridge of claim 74, wherein the needle is an introducer needle, abiopsy needle, or a needle trocar.
 78. The needle cartridge of claim 74,wherein the needle comprises a catheter and/or a guidewire.
 79. Theneedle cartridge of claim 78, wherein the catheter is a peripherallyinserted central catheter, a central venous catheter, a urinarycatheter, an arterial catheter, a venous catheter, a tunneled catheter,a port catheter, or a non-tunneled central catheter.
 80. The needlecartridge of claim 74, wherein the cartridge is configured to couple toan insertion device.
 81. The needle cartridge of claim 80, wherein thecartridge serves as a barrier between the cartridge and the insertiondevice or between the insertion device and an individual.
 82. An imagingdevice for locating a target tissue in an individual in need thereof,comprising: an ultrasound transducer configured to emit and receive anultrasound wave; an infrared sensor configured to emit and receive aninfrared radiation; and a display screen operatively coupled to theultrasound transducer and the infrared sensor, the display screenconfigured to display an ultrasound image and/or an infrared image ofthe target tissue.
 83. The imaging device of claim 82, wherein thetarget tissue is a blood vessel.
 84. The imaging device of claim 82,wherein the target tissue is a joint or a soft tissue.
 85. The imagingdevice of claim 84, wherein the soft tissue comprises a tendon, aligament, fascia, a fibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, a nerve, amuscle, skin, or a synovial membrane.
 86. The imaging device of claim80, wherein the target tissue is a calcified tissue.
 87. The imagingdevice of claim 86, wherein the calcified tissue is a bone.
 88. Theimaging device of claim 82, comprising a vacuum connection locatedwithin the housing, the vacuum connection comprising a vacuum connectoroperatively connected to the cartridge.
 89. The imaging device of claim88, wherein the vacuum connector is in vacuum communication with avacuum source.
 90. The imaging device of claim 82, wherein the imagingdevice comprises a power source.
 91. The imaging device of claim 82,wherein the infrared sensor comprises an infrared radiation source. 92.The imaging device of claim 91, wherein the infrared radiation source isa light emitting diode (LED) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED).93. The imaging device of claim 82, wherein the infrared sensorcomprises an infrared radiation detector.
 94. The imaging device ofclaim 93, wherein the infrared radiation detector is an infraredphotodetector or a temperature detector.
 95. A method of introducing aneedle into a target tissue in an individual in need thereof, using theinsertion device of claim 1, comprising: a) securing the cartridge tothe cartridge receiver; b) imaging the target tissue using theultrasound probe and the infrared sensor by contacting the surface ofthe skin of the individual with the bottom surface of the cartridge; c)identifying a needle insertion point on the display screen; and d)adjusting the needle holder angle and moving the needle longitudinally,through the cartridge inlet, thereby introducing the needle at theneedle insertion point and into the target tissue.
 96. The method ofclaim 95, wherein adjusting the needle holder angle and moving theneedle longitudinally are manually actuated.
 97. The method of claim 95,wherein adjusting the needle holder angle and moving the needlelongitudinally are automatically actuated by the computing device. 98.The method of claim 95, comprising administering a therapeutic agentusing the needle.
 99. The method of claim 95, comprising collecting abiopsy sample using the needle.
 100. A method of sampling venous bloodin an individual in need thereof, using the insertion device of claim 1,comprising: a) securing the cartridge to the cartridge receiver; b)securing an evacuated collection tube to the port; c) imaging a bloodvessel using the ultrasound probe and the infrared sensor by contactingthe surface of the skin of the individual with the bottom surface of thecartridge; d) identifying a needle insertion point on the displayscreen; e) adjusting the needle holder angle and moving the needlelongitudinally, through the cartridge inlet, thereby introducing theneedle at the needle insertion point and into the blood vessel; and f)collecting venous blood from the individual into the evacuated, bloodcollection tube.
 101. A method of introducing a catheter into a targettissue in an individual in need thereof, using the insertion device ofclaim 1, comprising: a) securing the cartridge to the cartridgereceiver; b) imaging the target tissue using the ultrasound probe andthe infrared sensor by contacting the surface of the skin of theindividual with the bottom surface of the cartridge; c) identifying acatheter insertion point on the display screen; and d) adjusting theneedle holder angle and moving the catheter longitudinally, through thecartridge inlet, thereby introducing the catheter at the catheterinsertion point and into the target tissue.
 102. An insertion device forinserting a needle into a target tissue in an individual in needthereof, comprising: a housing comprising: a cartridge receivercomprising a plurality of first connectors; a cartridge having a topsurface, a bottom surface, a proximal end, and a distal end, thecartridge configured to be coupled to the cartridge receiver,comprising: a plurality of second connectors located on the top surfaceof the cartridge, configured to form an electrical connection with theplurality of first connectors of the cartridge receiver, and a needleholder, comprising an interior having a proximal end and distal end atrack therebetween, the track having track walls configured to guide theneedle, a needle connector configured to couple the needle to aplurality of actuators, a needle holder opening located at the distalend of the needle holder, and a port located at the proximal end of theneedle holder; wherein the needle exits through the needle holderopening; and an imaging apparatus configured to image the target tissue.103. The insertion device of claim 102, wherein the target tissue is ablood vessel.
 104. The insertion device of claim 102, wherein the targettissue is a joint or a soft tissue.
 105. The insertion device of claim104, wherein the soft tissue comprises a tendon, a ligament, fascia, afibrous tissue, an adipose tissue, a nerve, a muscle, skin, or asynovial membrane.
 106. The insertion device of claim 102, wherein thetarget tissue is a calcified tissue.
 107. The insertion device of claim104, wherein the calcified tissue is a bone.
 108. The insertion deviceof claim 102, wherein the housing comprises at least one handle. 109.The insertion device of claim 102, wherein the cartridge is reversiblycoupled to the cartridge receiver.
 110. The insertion device of claim102, wherein the plate is fixed relative to the cartridge receiver. 111.The insertion device of claim 102, wherein the needle holder is movableangular-wise and moves within the housing.
 112. The insertion device ofclaim 102, wherein the needle holder is angled at a needle holder angleranging between about 0° to about 80°.
 113. The insertion device ofclaim 102, wherein the needle is an introducer needle, a biopsy needle,or a needle trocar.
 114. The insertion device of claim 102, wherein theneedle comprises a catheter and/or a guidewire.
 115. The insertiondevice of claim 114, wherein the catheter is a peripherally insertedcentral catheter, a central venous catheter, a urinary catheter, anarterial catheter, a venous catheter, a tunneled catheter, a portcatheter, or a non-tunneled central catheter.
 116. The insertion deviceof claim 102, wherein the needle is in flow communication with a fluidinjection line.
 117. The insertion device of claim 102, wherein thecartridge receiver comprises a frame having a rail on either of itssides, the rail configured to secure the needle holder.
 118. Theinsertion device of claim 102, wherein the plurality of actuatorscomprises a spring actuator and an angle actuator.
 119. The insertiondevice of claim 118, wherein the spring actuator controls thelongitudinal movement of the needle.
 120. The insertion device of claim118, wherein the angle actuator controls the needle holder angle. 121.The insertion device of claim 102, comprising a vacuum connectionlocated within the housing, the vacuum connection comprising a vacuumconnector operatively connected to the cartridge.
 122. The insertiondevice of claim 121, wherein the vacuum connector is in vacuumcommunication with a vacuum source.
 123. The insertion device of claim122, wherein the vacuum source is configured to draw air through theneedle holder opening.
 124. The insertion device of claim 122, whereinthe vacuum source is configured to draw air through the bottom surfaceof the cartridge.
 125. The insertion device of claim 102, wherein theneedle holder comprises a port lever or a collection tube configured tobe received by the port.
 126. The insertion device of claim 125, whereinthe port lever moves within a cartridge arc path as the needle holder ismoved from one selected position to another.
 127. The insertion deviceof claim 102, wherein the insertion device comprises a power source.128. The insertion device of claim 102, wherein the insertion devicecomprises a disposable sleeve configured for receiving the cartridge.129. The insertion device of claim 102, wherein the imaging apparatus isan ultrasound transducer, an infrared sensor, or a combination thereof.130. The insertion device of claim 129, wherein the infrared sensorcomprises an infrared radiation source.
 131. The insertion device ofclaim 130, wherein the infrared radiation source is a light emittingdiode (LED) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED).
 132. Theinsertion device of claim 129, wherein the infrared sensor comprises aninfrared radiation detector.
 133. The insertion device of claim 132,wherein the infrared radiation detector is an infrared photodetector ora temperature detector.
 134. The insertion device of claim 129, whereinthe ultrasound transducer is configured to emit and receive anultrasound wave.
 135. The insertion device of claim 134, wherein thecartridge comprises a plate having a planar surface and a thicknessconfigured to allow the ultrasound wave to pass therethrough.
 136. Theinsertion device of claim 134, wherein the cartridge serves as a barrierbetween the cartridge and the insertion device or between the insertiondevice and the individual.
 137. The insertion device of any one ofclaims 1-73 and 102-136, wherein the cartridge is pre-loaded with atherapeutic agent, wherein the therapeutic agent is delivered to theindividual through the needle.
 138. The insertion device of any one ofclaims 1-73 and 102-136, wherein the cartridge further comprises aninjection device.
 139. The insertion device of claim 138, wherein ananesthetizing agent is delivered to the individual through the injectiondevice.
 140. The insertion device of claim 139, wherein the injectiondevice is an additional needle.